By Ncaba Ntshakala
The University of Eswatini (UNESWA) is seriously grappling with severe financial difficulties, burdened by debts nearing E300 million.
In response to this crisis, the Minister of Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, has announced the formation of a twelve-member Task Force to investigate the situation at the university.
This initiative is set to uncover the root causes of the financial woes and develop strategies for the institution’s recovery.
The Task Force will be chaired by Muzi Siyaya, Managing Director of Ubombo Sugar, with Professor Bheki Mamba from UNISA as a prominent member, alongside ten other experts from various backgrounds.
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The announcement was made during a courtesy meeting at UNESWA’s main campus in Kwaluseni.
In his remarks, Minister Owen Nxumalo emphasized the critical role of university education in strengthening a knowledgeable workforce capable of driving the country’s growth.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to education, particularly post-secondary education, as a cornerstone for the development of essential skills and knowledge across all sectors.
“His Majesty’s Government has always identified education, in particular, post-secondary education, as key for the supply of an adequate mix and threshold of skills and knowledge to scaffold production in all sectors,” Minister Nxumalo stated.
He expressed grave concern over the university’s inability to meet its financial commitments, which has severely hampered its growth and compromised its mission to provide quality education to Emaswati.
The Minister highlighted those various analyses, including those conducted by the World Bank, have pointed to significant internal inefficiencies and ineffective functioning of some key structures within the university. These issues have necessitated the formation of a Task Force to thoroughly assess the university’s operations and identify viable solutions.
The Task Force is expected to deliver a comprehensive assessment focusing on four strategic areas: financial management and resource efficiency, academic programmes, governance and management capacity, and the university’s funding model.
The team will gather information through interviews, document reviews, comparative analysis, and other effective methods to ensure a thorough investigation.
Minister Nxumalo outlined the timeline for the Task Force’s work, with an interim report due within the first three months and a final report to be completed in six months.
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He urged the university to cooperate fully with the Task Force, providing comprehensive information and facilitating interviews with identified staff members.
“It is envisioned that the outcome of the assessment will guide solutions in four strategic areas: financial management and resource efficiency, academic programs, governance and management capacity, and the funding model of the university,” he said.
The Minister further emphasized the importance of honesty and integrity throughout the assessment process to ensure accurate outcomes and optimal solutions.
He called on all participants to uphold these values to achieve the best possible results for UNESWA.
The appointed Task Force
- Muzi Siyaya Chairperson MD – Ubombo Sugar Limited
- Prof Bheki Mamba Member UNISA
- Dr Alex Tsela Member Alex Tsela Holdings
- Mboni Dlamini Member Eswatini Qualifications Authority
- Fairlie Mabuza Member CEO SIDC
- Sibusiso Nhleko Member MTN
- Sifisosethu Bhembe Member Ministry of Labour and Social Security
- Primrose Diamini Member Ministry of Finance – PEU
- Mbuso Simelane Member Inhlonhla
- Mcolisi Maphosa Secretary Ministry of Education and Training
- Smangele Shabangu Member Office of the Accountant General
- Leonard Nxumalo Member Eswatini Revenue Service
