BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – Preparations for the reopening of schools are well underway, with government affirming that the academic year will commence as scheduled.
Acting Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, Nanikie Mnisi, confirmed that significant strides have been made to ensure readiness across the education sector.
Speaking to this publication, Mnisi disclosed that 200 primary schools have already received their Free Primary Education (FPE) grants, while others have yet to submit the required documents to access their funding.
“The distribution of grants is progressing steadily, and we anticipate full compliance from the remaining schools soon,” Mnisi said.
The delivery of schoolbooks is nearing completion, with just 200 books pending distribution.
“We are confident that all books will be delivered by tomorrow,” she added. Mnisi attributed delays in the process to recent adverse weather conditions, which rendered some areas inaccessible.
Meanwhile, rehabilitation efforts for schools damaged by recent storms are ongoing. Mnisi explained that the government has partnered with various stakeholders to ensure that affected schools can resume operations. Temporary arrangements include the use of churches, community halls, and Inkhundla offices as makeshift classrooms. “We have identified ten schools severely damaged by the storms and secured alternative venues to facilitate learning,” she stated.
The Acting PS further revealed that the procurement process for building materials to repair the damaged schools is in progress. The government has engaged school principals to collaborate with local suppliers and businesses for repairs, a move aimed at reducing transportation costs and promoting local economic activity.
Mnisi acknowledged the financial strain caused by storm damage, noting that repairs to schools damaged in November 2024 alone cost the government E7 million. Additional resources have been requested through a supplementary budget to address the latest damages.
Despite these challenges, Mnisi assured the nation that all schools, whether affected by the storms or not, will open and function as planned. “We cannot control natural disasters, but we are committed to ensuring that education is not disrupted. All necessary measures are being implemented to guarantee a smooth reopening,” she concluded.
This proactive approach demonstrates the government’s dedication to prioritizing education and ensuring a stable learning environment for all students, even in the face of unforeseen challenges.
