By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Vice Chancellor of the University of Eswatini, Chief Mkhumbi Dlamini has credited Prime Minister Russell Dlamini for stepping in and negotiating with the Eswatini Electricity Company and the Eswatini Water Services Corporation to prevent the disconnection of essential services at the institution.
“Thanks to the Prime Minister’s intervention, the university can continue to operate with uninterrupted access to water and electricity after he negotiated with EEC and EWSC,” the Chief told the Public Accounts Committee led by Mhlangatane Member of Parliament and Deputy Speaker, Madala Mhlanga.
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During the appearance of the Ministry of Education and Training before the PAC, the Vice Chancellor disclosed that the University of Eswatini was facing the risk of having its water and electricity services disconnected due to outstanding debts owed to the utility providers.
However, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini’s timely intervention averted the crisis and ensured that the university could carry on its operations without any disruptions.
“Unfortunately, due to the financial situation the University is facing, the internet services have, however, been disconnected at the institution,” the Vice Chancellor told the PAC.
The Vice Chancellor expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for his swift action in resolving the matter and ensuring that the university’s essential services were maintained.
The successful negotiation with the Eswatini Electricity Company and the Eswatini Water Services Corporation has not only saved the day for the institution but also underscored the importance of collaboration between government entities in addressing critical issues.
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The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by educational institutions in meeting their financial obligations and the crucial role that government leadership can play in finding solutions to such challenges.
The Vice Chancellor emphasised the significance of maintaining essential services for the smooth functioning of the university and expressed optimism for continued support from the government in overcoming similar obstacles in the future.
