By Ncaba Ntshakala
Eswatini College of Technology (ECOT) has taken a major step toward addressing the challenges facing graduates by embracing the “NKWE” mandate to equip students with entrepreneurial skills and strengthen self-reliance.
This was announced by Acting Principal Henry Khumalo during the institution’s 22nd Graduation Ceremony.
Khumalo emphasized that the NKWE initiative, which aligns education with entrepreneurship and technological innovation, sets to reshape ECOT’s curriculum to produce job creators rather than job seekers.
Khumalo revealed that ECOT has formalized partnerships with the Youth Enterprise Revolving Fund (YERF) and is in advanced talks with various key institutions, including the Royal Science and Technology Park (RSTP),
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the Small Enterprises Development Company (SEDCO), Eswatini Industrial Development Corporation (EIDC), Stefanutti Stocks, and Microprojects.
These partnerships are designed to introduce entrepreneurship from the first year of study, which will enhance innovation and prepare students for the demands of the evolving job market.
Khumalo highlighted the significance of these collaborations, stating, “Our goal is to empower our students with both academic knowledge and practical skills that align with industry needs.”
Addressing an audience of government officials, industry partners, parents, and graduates, Khumalo proudly announced that ECOT has graduated 306 students, 184 males and 122 females, who are now ready to embark on the next phase of their journey.
“ECOT is 78 years old, one of the oldest technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institutions in Eswatini. Over the years, we have produced countless graduates, including myself, who now contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy,” he remarked.
However, Khumalo acknowledged that the scarcity of job opportunities poses a challenge for new graduates, despite their valuable skills.
To address this issue, ECOT’s vision includes establishing an incubation centre to support aspiring entrepreneurs.
“This centre will provide a nurturing space for students to develop their business ideas and transform them into viable ventures,” he said.
He also announced that ECOT has secured internships with prominent companies like RESCorp and Illovo which will provide students with practical exposure and enhance their employability.
Khumalo expressed gratitude to these companies for awarding top achievers and supporting students through internships, recognizing their role in strengthening the link between academia and industry.
Khumalo further extended appreciation to the Taiwan Technical Mission, which has played a crucial role in enhancing ECOT’s departments, particularly Hospitality, Electrical, and ICT.
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“By December 2024, we expect new equipment for our Mechanical Engineering Department, further improving our teaching infrastructure,” he said.
He noted that the institution’s collaboration with the industry has been instrumental in raising the standard of education and equipping students with market-relevant skills.
The Acting Principal also acknowledged the support of the Ministry of Education and Training, the Ministry of Public Service, and the Civil Service Commission in helping ECOT realize its mission.
He commended the ministries for facilitating the hiring of both full-time and part-time lecturers and sponsoring an ICT lecturer to pursue a PhD in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
However, Khumalo identified lecturer retention as a key challenge, explaining, “Many of our lecturers leave for better opportunities elsewhere, creating gaps that take time to fill and affect the continuity of education for our students.”
Khumalo concluded his address by recognizing the crucial role of parents, guardians, and lecturers in the success of the graduates.
“Your unwavering support has been instrumental in their journey, and today’s celebration is as much yours as it is theirs.
Lecturers, your dedication to shaping the future of our graduates is reflected in their achievements. You have instilled in them the values of perseverance, integrity, and critical thinking,” he said.
To the graduates, Khumalo offered words of encouragement, reminding them that they are now ambassadors of the institution and bear the responsibility of shaping their own futures.
“You are no longer just students; you are innovators, creators, and leaders of tomorrow. Carry the values you have learned here and approach the next phase of your life with confidence and purpose,” he urged.
Khumalo expressed hope that the Ministry of Education and Training would support ECOT’s upgrade to a university which will allow students to pursue degrees locally and enhance the education landscape of Eswatini.
“We look forward to a future where ECOT can offer degree programs, further strengthening the nation’s human capital,” he said.
In closing, Khumalo congratulated the Class of 2022-2023, affirming, “We are immensely proud of you, and we will always be here cheering you on as you pursue your dreams. Congratulations to all of you!”
