BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE – Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has disclosed Eswatini’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with South Africa in higher education, science, innovation and information communication technology (ICT) following a high-level meeting with South Africa’s Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, Blade Nzimande.
Minister Nzimande paid a courtesy visit to the Prime Minister at the Private and Cabinet Office on Monday afternoon, where the two leaders discussed opportunities for deeper collaboration between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of South Africa.
During the meeting, Minister Nzimande conveyed gratitude on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa for Eswatini’s historic contribution and unwavering support during South Africa’s liberation struggle, highlighting the strong ties that continue to unite the two neighbouring nations.
Prime Minister emphasized the Kingdom’s desire to expand cooperation in key sectors that are critical to economic growth and human capital development. He noted that Eswatini is placing significant focus on advancing higher education, scientific research, innovation and digital transformation as part of its national development agenda.
A key area of discussion was Eswatini’s ambitious plan to establish the SADC University of Technology, a regional institution expected to become a hub for innovation, research and technological advancement.
The Prime Minister said innovation and ICT would play a central role in the proposed university, positioning it to produce the skills and knowledge required to drive industrialisation and economic competitiveness across the region.
Both leaders agreed to explore potential areas of cooperation and partnership that could support the successful establishment and growth of the institution, including knowledge exchange, research collaboration and capacity-building initiatives.
The engagement reflects the growing partnership between Eswatini and South Africa and underscores a shared commitment to harnessing education, science and technology as catalysts for regional development and prosperity.
