BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – In a significant move to address the digital divide in Eswatini, Minister of Information, Communication, and Technology, Savannah Maziya, has launched the Youth Digital Skills Training Program.
This initiative aims to equip young people with essential digital skills necessary for thriving in today’s digital economy.
Key Highlights
Collaboration: The program is a partnership between the Eswatini National Library Services, Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCCOM), MTN Eswatini, and the MTN Foundation.
Enrollment: Over 2 300 youth have already enrolled, with more than 100 certified in digital skills.
Geographical Reach: The initiative targets youth from various regions including Lavumisa, Siteki, Simunye, and Ezulwini.
Minister Maziya’s Vision
Minister Maziya emphasized the importance of digital literacy, stating it is a right, not a privilege. She encouraged the youth to engage in technology, particularly highlighting the need for:
– More coders and engineers
– Young girls in STEM
– Local innovators creating scalable solutions
She pointed out that the digital transformation of Eswatini hinges on the involvement of young people and their ability to innovate.
Program Goals
The Youth Digital Skills Training Program aims to:
Provide training in various platforms such as Microsoft tools, Google Workspace, and Cisco.
Foster self-employment and entrepreneurship among the youth.
Build a supportive ecosystem for digital talent, especially focusing on girls and marginalized youth.
Call to Action
Minister Maziya called on various stakeholders, including the public and private sectors, to support and scale this initiative. She encouraged the youth to take full advantage of the opportunities presented and to see themselves as the architects of the digital future.
Conclusion
The launch of the Youth Digital Skills Program marks a significant step towards empowering young people in Eswatini, fostering an environment where they can become problem solvers and solution builders in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
