Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Ministry of Education and Training has confirmed that Free Primary Education (FPE) funds for the third term will be disbursed once schools reopen on 16 September 2025.
Principal Secretary Nanikie Mnisi made the announcement during a press conference held in Mbabane on Thursday, 4 September. She was responding to concerns raised by journalists about whether the funds would be ready when learners return to class.
Talks with Treasury underway
Mnisi explained that the Ministry had already engaged the Treasury Department to facilitate the release of the funds. Discussions were progressing well, she said, and she expressed confidence that the payments would be finalised in time for the reopening of schools.
The Principal Secretary also noted that issues related to the Orphaned and Vulnerable Children (OVC) programme were being handled in collaboration with the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO). “We are hopeful that by the time schools open, these matters will have been addressed at length,” Mnisi stated.
School feeding programme to resume
Mnisi further revealed that the Ministry was preparing to resume the school feeding programme immediately after schools reopen. She clarified that distributing food supplies while schools were closed had proved problematic in the past.
“If we distribute food before the term starts, it risks going to waste or getting lost, as there is no one at the schools to safeguard it. Once learners are back, we will ensure food distribution begins promptly,” she explained.
Commitment to smooth school reopening
The announcement comes just days after Government postponed the reopening of schools by a week, from 9 September to 16 September, to allow the nation to fully observe the Umhlanga Reed Dance celebrations.
With the latest assurance on FPE payments and school feeding, the Ministry has sought to calm concerns among parents, school administrators, and communities ahead of the new term.
Mnisi concluded by emphasising the Government’s commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind, whether through access to education, school meals, or support for vulnerable learners.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
