Africa-Press – Eswatini. The European Union in Eswatini, in partnership with the Government of Eswatini, kicked off the Skills for Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship in Eswatini (S4YEEE) programme.
As Eswatini looks to diversify its economy and reduce youth unemployment, S4YEEE implemented by the German Cooperation Agency (GIZ), presents a strategic opportunity to equip young people with the right tools to participate meaningfully in the economy.
The programme is under the umbrella of the WE4D programme, and will focus on enhancing the quality, relevance, and accessibility of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
The Technical Kick-Off Meeting was attended by key stakeholders across government, business, civil society, and youth organisations. The Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, Anthony Masilela, hailed the project as a game-changer:
“This programme has the potential to position Eswatini as a regional leader in TVET. It aligns well with our labour market needs and supports the national drive toward inclusive employment and skills development,” he said.
Representing the Ministry of Education and Training, Thembinkosi Mamba emphasised the importance of aligning education with economic opportunity:
“We appreciate the EU’s support for this programme and its focus on practical skills and entrepreneurship. It is exactly what our young people need to thrive in today’s competitive environment,” he noted.
The Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development Thabsile Mlangeni welcomed the programme, emphasising that a focus on skills for jobs is essential. She stressed the importance of ensuring the project’s sustainability to close the gap between skills and industry needs and expressed optimism that the initiative would help reduce unemployment.
“Thank you to the EU and all stakeholders for their technical inputs. We have no doubt that this project will be a success,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the European Union, EU Head of Cooperation Eva-Maria Engdahl said the initiative is funded under the EU’s Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (MIP) 2021–2027. She explained that it aims to strengthen TVET systems in Eswatini to meet labour market demands, drive economic development, and promote social inclusion—particularly for youth, women, and other disadvantaged groups.
Engdahl also reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to youth development and social inclusion: “We are committed to ensuring this programme delivers tangible benefits for the youth and contributes to a more inclusive and skilled society,” she said.
EU Education Focal Person Allen Dlamini and Roberta Ballabio engaged with GIZ and local stakeholders on the expectations of the programme moving forward.
GIZ representative Gavin Watson introduced members of the expert team in the country to undertake a field mission and conduct further organisational consultations. He noted that the team brings extensive regional and international experience.
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