s by Ncaba Ntshakala
The Government of Eswatini addressed troubling allegations of bribery and corruption within the education sector, following reports that have garnered widespread attention across various media platforms.
The accusations, which implicate processes such as hiring, promotion, and transfers of personnel, have ignited concerns across the nation.
These concerns echo beyond the education sector, with similar claims being made against other Government institutions.
The Government, according to a statement issued by Government Spokesperson Alpheous Nxumalo, views these allegations as serious and damaging, raising alarms about systemic corruption that jeopardizes the livelihoods of emaSwati.
In his statement, Nxumalo emphasised the Government’s dedication to combating corruption, emphasising the stance of Prime Minister Russell Dlamini, who has made eradicating corruption a central theme of his administration.
“Since assuming office, His Excellency the Prime Minister has consistently emphasized that corruption has no place in Eswatini,” Nxumalo stated.
The Prime Minister, in his recent Government Policy Statement, expressed the Government’s strong commitment to fighting corruption at all levels, describing it as a “pervasive threat that undermines national development.”
According to the statement, the Prime Minister pledged to intensify efforts to expose corrupt practices and individuals, with a vision of promoting greater transparency and accountability throughout the country’s institutions.
The Spokesperson made clear that the Government takes these allegations seriously, understanding the far-reaching consequences that corruption has on society.
“The consequences of corruption are well-known and profoundly damaging to society,” Nxumalo noted.
He further highlighted how corruption hinders the country’s ability to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), which is essential to enhancing economic growth and development in Eswatini.
The alleged bribery within the education sector, a key pillar of the nation’s future, has therefore become a focal point of concern for both the Government and the public.
Considering these concerns, Nxumalo urged emaSwati to remain vigilant and report any suspected corrupt activities to the relevant authorities.
“Government calls on all citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspected corrupt activities,” the statement urged.
Such reports, Nxumalo continued, should be directed to the Royal Eswatini Police Service, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), or the Office of the Prime Minister.
The Spokesperson assured the public that all reports would be thoroughly investigated and that those found guilty of corruption would be held accountable.
He also underlined the importance of collective responsibility, stating that “It is the collective duty of every liSwati to work towards a corruption-free society, not only for the betterment of the present but also for future generations.”
The Government’s statement followed a public outcry triggered by revelations from the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT), which alleged widespread corruption within the Teaching Service Commission (TSC).
According to SNAT, over seventy teachers have been forced to pay bribes to secure employment, with payments demanded even for basic documentation such as pay slips.
SNAT’s damning accusations extended to advances, allowances, transfers, relocations, and promotions within the education sector.
In a statement, SNAT expressed frustration, noting that “the less said about advances, allowances, transfers, relocation, posts, promotions, etc., the better.”
The Union reported that despite taking their grievances to various platforms including the Anti-Corruption Commission, Parliament, and the Ministry of Education and Training, no substantive action had been taken.
RELATED: Minister Owen commends SASE’s role in advancing educational research at 48th Conference
In a meeting with the Ministry’s Senior Management Team, SNAT presented what it described as “concrete evidence” of corruption.
Yet, the Union’s efforts were met with indifference, with SNAT claiming that allegedly corrupt officials were later relocated, and the allegations received a “cold shoulder.”
A teacher who commented on condition of anonymity, explained how corruption is eroding the education sector, further escalating the already high unemployment rate in the country.
He noted, “This is killing the education sector in the country.
There are allegations that some posts rather stay and not be utilized because people are failing to pay the amount needed to secure a job post.”
DPM’s Office to host job and entrepreneurial expo for Persons with Disabilities
The Deputy Prime Minister’s Office has announced the upcoming Job and Entrepreneurial Expo for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), set to take place next week.
This highly anticipated event is set to address key challenges faced by PWDs in the workforce and entrepreneurial sectors while promoting inclusivity and diversity.
In a statement shared by the office, the Expo seeks to connect individuals with potential employers committed to strengthening a more inclusive job market, as outlined in the Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Act of 2018 and the Eswatini National Disability Plan of Action (ENDPA) 2024-2028.
A central goal of the Expo is to facilitate employment opportunities for PWDs by creating meaningful connections with employers who recognize the value of diversity.
In addition to creating job opportunities, the Expo will help identify and reduce the trade barriers that disproportionately affect PWDs.
The ease of doing business remains a challenge for many, particularly those with disabilities, who face additional obstacles in accessing entrepreneurial resources.
The Expo will focus on identifying these barriers and finding solutions to reduce them, making it easier for PWDs to engage in business activities and contribute to the economy.
An important component of the Expo will be raising awareness and educating the public about the skills and contributions that PWDs bring to the workforce.
RELATED: Eswatini on par with EU countries on free education and healthcare
Employers, educators, and members of the business community will be encouraged to move beyond stereotypes and recognize the unique talents of PWDs.
The DPM’s office highlighted that the Expo seeks to dispel misconceptions about PWDs’ capabilities and it will promote a more inclusive approach to hiring and business practices that value the contributions of all individuals.
Moreover, the DPM‘s Office asserts that the expo will also focus on empowering PWD job seekers. Attendees will have the chance to showcase their academic and professional qualifications, business skills, and entrepreneurial ideas to potential employers and partners.
Through interactive workshops and sessions, participants will gain valuable information on how to start income-generating activities, improve their job search strategies, and refine their business ideas.
Résumé writing, interview techniques, and networking strategies will be some of the key skills imparted to help PWDs navigate the job market more effectively.
Networking will be a major feature of the Expo, providing PWDs with opportunities to connect with employers, disability service providers, vocational rehabilitation agencies, and other stakeholders.
The event will also emphasize the importance of workplace accommodations and accessibility.
Employers will be encouraged to provide the necessary tools and modifications that enable PWDs to perform their jobs effectively, thereby promoting a more inclusive work environment.
Again, the Expo will celebrate the success stories of PWDs who have overcome challenges to achieve success in their careers and businesses.
