BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Mavuso Exhibition and Trade Centre in Manzini was a place to be today (Friday, November 29, 2024), as Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini officiated at the graduation of Institute of Development Management (IDM) students.
The exhibition and trade centre became a hive of activity, as 6,000 IDM students from Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini did not want to be left out on their big day, the 18th join graduation ceremony of the institution, which is situated in the three countries mentioned above.
According to those who witnessed the event from start to finish, the centre started to be busy in the morning, as many stakeholders of IDM had already been aware that the leader of Eswatini Government would be the guest speaker at the event.
The students were not alone on this day. They were accompanied by their parents, guardians, relatives, friends, and other well-wishers to support them on their memorable day. The momentous occasion was also graced by the presence of Minister of Public Service Mabulala Maseko, Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi, Ministry of Public Principal Secretary (PS) Sipho Tsabedze, and Ministry of Education, Training Acting PS Nanikie Mnisi, and other officials such as IDM Regional Director Samkelo Lushaba.
By 1 pm today, the prime minister had already arrived at the centre to participate in the auspicious occasion. His arrival was met with joy and excitement from all those present, who were ready to listen to his keynote address. Minister Mabulala Maseko introduced him to the podium, as his portfolio (the Ministry of Public Service) is responsible for IDM.
The premier expressed pride and immense honour as he stood before the graduates at IDM’s 18th Joint Graduation Ceremony. He described the event as a momentous occasion, not just for the 2024 graduates but for all present, as they celebrated the achievements of 50 years of diverse excellence, regional collaboration and growth.
“Today, we gather to acknowledge the remarkable accomplishments of our graduates from Eswatini, Botswana, and Lesotho – three nations united in our shared commitment to education, development, and progress,” Dlamini said.
He also mentioned that it was a great pleasure to welcome the Honourable Minister of Education and Training from the Kingdom of Lesotho, Honourable Professor Ntoi Rapapa.
“Your presence here today underscores the strong ties of cooperation between our nations and the shared commitment to advancing education in the region. Welcome, Honourable Minister,” he said.
According to the prime minister, this year marked a significant milestone for IDM, as it celebrated 50 years of academic excellence and contribution to the development of the SADC region. Since its founding in 1974, IDM has been a beacon of opportunity, illuminating the path towards greater opportunities for individuals and communities across Botswana, Lesotho, and Eswatini, according to the premier. The Institute, the prime minister said, had become a hub for knowledge and innovation, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in a rapidly changing world.
Over the past five decades, Dlamini said IDM had evolved into a knowledge creation and dissemination powerhouse.
“We have witnessed the graduation of over 10,000 professionals from our esteemed countries, individuals who have made significant contributions to their respective fields serving as ambassadors of IDM’s legacy,” he said.
Dlamini says IDM’s success story is a testament to the strength of regional cooperation. He says the collaboration between the three countries has created a unique model of higher education that can harness the nations’ collective strengths.
“Together, we have worked to provide education and development programmes that not only meet the needs of our economies but also shape future leaders who will steer our nations toward prosperity,” he said.
Directing his message to the ministers present at the event, the prime minister told them he was reminded of the transformative power of education as they celebrated the IDM Class of 2024. He said it was through education that they shaped the future, empowered individuals, and built societies that were resilient and capable of overcoming the challenges faced by humanity.
“Our world is changing rapidly, marked by technological advancements, shifting global dynamics, and the urgent need to address climate change, inequality, and sustainable development. The graduates we honour today have received an education beyond technical knowledge,” the premier said.
Directing his message to the graduates, he said, “You have been equipped with critical thinking, leadership, and problem-solving skills – qualities that will enable you to lead with integrity, innovate with purpose, and work towards the betterment of your communities.”
He said as they stepped into the next chapter of their lives, they should apply these lessons, for their personal growth but also for the advancement of the three nations and the region as a whole. According to the PM, the IDM’s commitment to diverse excellence was firmly embedded in its foundation. Its academic programmes, meticulously designed to meet the ever-evolving demands of the global market, stood as evidence of this unwavering dedication.
“We take great pride in the educators at IDM, who bring with them a rich blend of expertise and backgrounds. These educators not only impart technical skills, but also nurture critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership abilities—key competencies essential for navigating the complexities of our rapidly evolving world,” he said.
