BY LINDELWA MYENI
MBABANE – Central Bank of Eswatini (CBE) Governor Phil Mnisi has encouraged young women to pursue careers in science, technology and innovation, saying their participation is important in shaping Eswatini’s future, during Indaba X Eswatini held at the Central Bank of Eswatini headquarters today.
“To the young people in this room, and particularly to the young women, there is a place for you here. You belong here. Never allow anyone to convince you otherwise,” Mnisi said.
He urged young women to approach careers in science, technology and innovation with passion and determination, saying they should not be held back because of their gender.
“We would like to see more of you taking science, technology and innovation careers, with passion and tenacity,” he said.
Mnisi said women should have opportunities to participate meaningfully in fields that are increasingly contributing to the country’s development.
“You must not be disadvantaged just because you are a woman,” he said.
He further called for greater participation of women in leadership, stressing that their advancement should be based on their capabilities and contribution.
“We must change the centre and bring our women into the forefront and take leadership positions, not because they are women, but because they know their game,” Mnisi said.
The Governor said platforms such as Indaba X provide opportunities for young people to participate in discussions around technology, research and innovation and to contribute ideas that can shape the future.
“When you participate in this platform, it is to help to bring the future, building new solutions, research and giving help to the development of businesses in society,” he said.
Mnisi encouraged the young women attending the event to actively participate in the platform and make use of the opportunities created through engagements with experts and institutions.
He said the involvement of young people in technology and innovation was important in developing new solutions and creating opportunities that could benefit society.
The Governor said the opportunities created today could extend beyond the current generation and contribute to building a future in which young people, including women, play a meaningful role in shaping Eswatini’s development.
He urged the participants to approach the opportunities before them with confidence, passion and determination.
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