BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA
KWALUSENI – Behind the music, laughter and carnival atmosphere, a serious message was shared with UNESWA students: their lives matter.
The message from the university’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Justice Thwala during the UNESWA Kick-Off Carnival Powered by MTN on Friday, where student wellbeing took centre stage alongside entertainment and activities.
Addressing students, the Vice-Chancellor urged them to take greater responsibility for their health and the choices they make, particularly as the university works to tackle HIV infections and suicide among students.
“Your life matters. Your future matters too,” the Vice-Chancellor told students. He called for collective efforts to bring HIV infections, which he referenced as being over 4 000, down to zero, while also setting the goal of zero suicides and zero student hunger.
The message gave the carnival a deeper purpose beyond welcoming first-year students. The event brought together entertainment, wellness, entrepreneurship and digital opportunities, creating space for students to connect while also engaging with issues affecting their lives.
The Vice-Chancellor also highlighted the role of partnerships in creating support systems that can help students thrive at university. He thanked MTN for its continued support, describing the partnership as one that goes beyond business to saving lives, creating opportunities and building a better generation.
#UNESWA #UNESWACarnival #MTNEswatini #StudentWellbeing #HIVAwareness #SuicidePrevention #YouthWellness #Eswatini
(Courtesy Pic)
