By Ncaba Ntshakala
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) recently released its annual report, where they highlighted the significant achievements of the Eswatini Youth Empowerment Programme (EYEP).
Launched in 2023, EYEP is a five-year initiative designed to address the critical issue of youth unemployment in Eswatini.
This initiative was developed through a collaborative effort between UNDP, the Eswatini government, the private sector, tertiary institutions, and civil society organizations. EYEP targets both graduates and out-of-school youth.
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The program offers unemployed graduates internship opportunities to gain valuable work experience and skills.
The report highlights the success of the initiative, with 300 graduates having participated and received a monthly stipend.
Notably, 35 graduates from the first two cohorts were offered extended positions with their host organizations after completing their internships.
UNDP asserted that this not only benefits the graduates but also injects fresh perspectives and talent into participating companies.
Over 70 organizations across various sectors have benefitted from the program, which has been hailed as a positive impact on the Eswatini workforce.
EYEP also focuses on out-of-school youth where it offers artisanal skills training programs. This equips them with the necessary skills to either find employment or start their own businesses.
The report details the successful training of 360 youth in various trades, such as sewing, plumbing, upholstery, building and construction, metalwork, and electrical installation.
Following their training, 90 graduates from the program’s first cohort received starter kits with essential tools to establish their own businesses.
The report emphasizes the program’s effectiveness, with 84% of these graduates now employed, either through self-employment or working for established firms.
The report features personal stories of the transformative impact of EYEP. Phinda Nyambose, an associate degree holder in International Tourism, is said to have struggled to find employment after graduation.
However, through EYEP’s artisanal skills training program, he obtained a certificate in metalwork and launched his own business.
Another success story is that of Mcoliswa Makhanya, who dreamt of following in his father’s footsteps as a builder.
UNDP expresses that the EYEP’s training program equipped him with the necessary skills, and he now works alongside his father while utilizing the tools received through the program.
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Moreover, a UNDP survey revealed that 38% of the first cohort of Ezulwini artisans launched their businesses after training, with many reporting significant financial returns.
Additionally, 10% of these graduates are managing their businesses while simultaneously pursuing internships.
The report further outlines EYEP’s continued progress. An additional 270 out-of-school youth from Mankayane, Nhlangano, and Siteki have undergone training, with their graduation ceremonies forthcoming.
Furthermore, 300 unemployed graduates were placed in various institutions for internship opportunities.
