BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The Ministry of Education and Training has encouraged parents to make greater use of online to pay school fees, as persistent heavy rains continue to disrupt movement and access across the country.
Issuing the advice, Under Secretary (US) for Schools Manager, Lungelo Nhlengetfwa, said digital payment methods offer a safe, efficient and practical solution during the current rainy conditions. He explained that parents can complete payments within minutes using mobile and online banking platforms, services that are now widely available across all commercial banks in Eswatini.
Nhlengetfwa highlighted that the use of ICTs improves efficiency and convenience, while also aligning with existing financial regulations. He reiterated that standard practice requires school fees to be paid directly into designated bank accounts held by schools, rather than in cash on school premises. This, he noted, promotes transparency and accountability while reducing the risk of misappropriation of funds.
Another key benefit of electronic payments, he added, is the avoidance of long queues, which have recently been observed at banks and retail outlets in many urban areas. By paying remotely, parents are able to save time and minimise unnecessary travel, particularly at a time when flooding and damaged road infrastructure have made transportation difficult in some parts of the country.
The US for Schools Manager further explained that ICT-based payments help parents navigate the challenges brought about by heavy rains, which have disrupted the movement of people and goods. He said the approach supports continuity and preparedness ahead of the new school term, while prioritising safety.
Echoing these sentiments, Eswatini Principals Association President Armstrong Dlamini also appealed to parents to adopt electronic payment methods. Both educators clarified, however, that mobile money platforms have not yet been fully finalised for school fee payments, and therefore parents are advised to rely on bank-based electronic services for now.
Nhlengetfwa also acknowledged that the ongoing rains have affected the distribution of textbooks, stationery and food supplies to schools nationwide. Despite these challenges, he expressed optimism that conditions would improve in the coming days, allowing government to accelerate road repairs and logistical arrangements.
He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring schools are ready for the reopening scheduled for January 27, 2026, and encouraged parents to plan ahead by using available digital solutions.
The Ministry’s message underscores the growing importance of technology in maintaining efficiency and resilience, particularly during periods of adverse weather, while ensuring that learners’ education continues with minimal disruption.
