Manzini – The European Union in Eswatini has pledged its support to the Fifth Annual National Conference on Curriculum, which opened today at the George Hotel in Manzini.
The two-day event, organised by the National Curriculum Centre, aims to create a platform for educators, researchers, policymakers and other education stakeholders to examine ways of fostering innovative skills in line with the demands of the 21st century and to build a sustainable future.
During the opening session, EU Head of Cooperation Eva-Maria Engdahl said the Union remains committed to advancing skills and employability, noting that this aligns with the conference theme Working towards the education global agenda 2030. Implementing Curriculum Reform in Eswatini.
She called for stronger focus on Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), describing it as a driver of economic growth, youth employment and innovation. Engdahl said TVET programmes should be responsive to labour market needs, support entrepreneurship, create opportunities for lifelong learning and remain inclusive with particular attention to youth, women and disadvantaged groups.
Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo expressed appreciation for the EU’s partnership, saying it has consistently contributed to the country’s development. He recalled that in 2019, with EU support, the Ministry rolled out Competency-Based Education (CBE) in Grade 1. He added that the same cohort of learners will reach a milestone in November 2025 when they sit for their first public examinations.
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