…..Minister Nxumalo lauds progress, promises upgrades across Eswatini
BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MANZINI – A spirit of progress and optimism filled the air today as Minister for Education and Training Owen Nxumalo toured the freshly completed wing of the Manzini Regional Education Offices – and came away impressed.
The Minister, visibly pleased with the quality and design of the building, described the new offices as a shining example of the standard government should strive for across the country. “This is the kind of infrastructure that inspires confidence,” he said. “It is indeed a facility Their Majesties would be proud to open.”
With 18 brand new offices, the wing marks a significant leap forward in the Ministry’s commitment to efficient service delivery. The Minister acknowledged, however, that many other regional offices around Eswatini need similar upgrades – a need he pledged to prioritise. “We must improve conditions for our education officers so they, in turn, can better serve the public,” he said.
Joining the Minister on the tour was Manzini Regional Secretary Arnold Dlamini, who praised the building’s aesthetic appeal, noting how it complements the town’s ever-growing reputation as a regional hub. “Manzini is bustling with activity,” he said. “This beautiful new wing fits perfectly into the city’s vibrant landscape and reflects our drive to modernise.”
The Regional Education Officer (REO), Sizwe Kunene, expressed his gratitude for the new facilities but noted that space was still a challenge. “The 18 offices are a huge improvement, but we still don’t have enough room to accommodate the entire team,” he shared.
Education professionals on the ground also used the opportunity to highlight some of the operational challenges they face. Regional Inspector Justice Mavuso appealed for essential tools such as vehicles, internet access, and laptops to enable fieldwork and timely reporting. Support staff representative Nkosinathi Malaza echoed the call, requesting maintenance equipment to preserve the building’s excellent condition.
The visit ended on a high note, with stakeholders hopeful that this development will be a catalyst for broader improvements across the education sector.
Indeed, the new wing stands not only as a building but as a bold statement — that Eswatini is investing in the future of education, one brick at a time.
