….. E500 000 boost promotes food security and hands-on learning
By Noncedo Shabangu
MBABANE – The Ministry of Education and Training has received garden tools worth approximately E500 000 from the World Vegetable Center, operating under the Taiwan Embassy.
The donation supports 26 primary schools across the country under the Taiwan–Africa Vegetable Initiative (TAVI), now in its second phase.
Presenting the donation, Taiwan’s Ambassador to Eswatini, Jeremy Liang, reaffirmed his country’s enduring commitment to the Kingdom. “Taiwan takes pride in upholding its end of the bilateral friendship,” said Ambassador Liang, adding that the initiative reflects strong collaboration between Eswatini’s Ministries of Agriculture and Education.
The generous donation included essential gardening equipment such as water tanks, hoes, spades, garden rakes, and more, tools that will empower schools to grow their own food while imparting vital life skills to learners.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo praised the impact of the partnership.
“This is not just a simple gesture. It reflects a shared commitment to education, food security, environmental stewardship, and the well-being of our children,” he said.
Nxumalo further highlighted how the initiative is transforming education. “This collaboration enriches our schools by blending nutrition education with practical agricultural skills, equipping learners with knowledge that extends far beyond the classroom.”
With support from development partners like Taiwan, Eswatini continues to advance its goals of sustainable development and youth empowerment, one school garden at a time.
(Pics by:Ministry of Education and Training Eswatini)
