BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The University of Eswatini (UNESWA) continues to be a beacon of academic excellence, community engagement, and innovation in the Kingdom, despite grappling with financial constraints.
From celebrating academic milestones to launching community health initiatives and advancing sustainable skills development, the institution remains unwavering in its commitment to national development.
Academic Excellence and Strategic Engagements
UNESWA has made significant academic and developmental strides in recent months. One major highlight was the engagement between the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department and the Construction Industry Council (CIC). Held on 1 April 2025, this initiative focused on a proposed short course in Solar PV Installation and Maintenance, aligning the university with green energy solutions and national sustainability goals.
On 2 April, a memorial service for Mr David Brewin, the founding Principal of the former Swaziland Agricultural College and University Centre (SACUC), was held at the Sibusiso Vilane Learning Centre. The event, officiated by Dr Mbuyazwe Dlamini, included a tree-planting ceremony in honour of Mr Brewin’s legacy and contributions to Eswatini’s higher education.
Community Health and Development Initiatives
UNESWA continues to serve beyond the lecture halls. In partnership with the Ministry of Health, Mafutseni Umphakatsi, and Georgetown University, the Department of Community Health Nursing Science launched the Mafutseni Primary Health Centre of Excellence, reaffirming the university’s strong community engagement ethos.
Celebrating Knowledge, Careers and Global Trends
The university proudly hosted the 11th Annual Commerce Indaba on 9 May 2025, bringing together business leaders and students to discuss entrepreneurship and innovation. Meanwhile, World Book and Copyright Day was commemorated through the University Library, with Vice Chancellor Professor Justice Thwala officiating.
On 22 May, UNESWA welcomed global and national leaders to launch the 2025 Human Development Report, themed “A matter of choice: people and possibilities in the Age of AI”. Distinguished guests included the UNDP Resident Representative, the British High Commissioner, and government ministers, showcasing UNESWA’s regional and international relevance.
Student Empowerment and Career Exposure
In May, the Faculty of Humanities and Education hosted an Information Sharing Session on overseas job opportunities, led by Ms Z. Malaza-Nxumalo. The Politics and Public Administration Society also launched with a career seminar under the theme “Discovering Careers in Political Science and Public Administration,” featuring speakers from government, academia, and industry.
The AI Academy held a graduation ceremony for Cohort 2 of the Generative AI for Educators Programme, with over 100 international students receiving certificates. This highlights UNESWA’s commitment to preparing educators for the evolving digital landscape.
Capacity Building and New Programme Approvals
From 2–6 June 2025, the Department of Animal Science conducted a farmers’ training programme at Luyengo Campus, culminating in a graduation ceremony officiated by Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. T.H. Gadaga.
UNESWA also celebrated the accreditation of three new academic programmes by the Eswatini Higher Education Council (ESHEC):
- Master of Arts in Religious Studies
- Postgraduate Diploma in Public Sector Accounting
- Postgraduate Diploma in Neonatology
Persistent Financial Challenges
Despite the impressive achievements, UNESWA is facing critical financial constraints. The university receives only 40% of its budget request from government, significantly below the E1 billion needed annually. This has resulted in:
- Delays in paying staff allowances and salaries
- Deteriorating infrastructure, particularly student hostels
- Reduced research output due to heavy teaching loads
- Low staff morale and occasional protests
Revenue from tuition fees and consultancy services has not been sufficient to close the gap, while the UNESWA Foundation has yet to secure enough donor support.
Forward-Looking Solutions and Partnerships
In response, the university has outlined forward-thinking strategies, including:
- Expanding consultancy services in agriculture, climate, and public health
- Strengthening alumni fundraising networks
- Commercialising university assets through leases or public-private partnerships (PPPs)
- Phased renovation of key facilities, starting with labs and hostels
- Student-led maintenance drives to encourage responsibility and reduce costs
- Collaborations with local businesses for sponsorship of infrastructure improvements
A University on the Move
In the face of financial pressures, UNESWA continues to serve as a hub of excellence, innovation, and opportunity. With the strong leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Justice Thwala and the dedication of its academic community, the university remains a vital contributor to Eswatini’s social and economic development.
(Courtesy Pic)
