Empowering the Future

On Friday, 27 September 2024, Mhubhe High School in the Manzini Region was a hub of inspiration and celebration as students, teachers, and parents gathered for the annual Speech and Prize Giving Ceremony. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. George Wachira, was represented by Mr. Deepak Shah, the World Food Programme (WFP) Head of Office in Eswatini. Mr. Shah delivered an empowering message on behalf of the UN, reinforcing the critical role of education in shaping the future.

The event, which also bid farewell to retiring teachers, was graced by the Honourable Minister of Education, Owen Nxumalo, who served as the guest of honour. In his remarks, Minister Nxumalo encouraged students to aim high and take advantage of the opportunities provided by education. "Let us aim to change our lives and our communities through education," he urged. The Minister also made a special appeal to teachers and parents, emphasizing the importance of working together to ensure that all children remain in school, despite financial challenges. "Let us not send any student home for not paying school fees. Instead, engage with their parents, and parents, I appeal to you to take your responsibility seriously and pay school fees timeously," he said.

Representing the UN, Mr. Shah brought greetings from Mr. Wachira and shared his own personal journey from humble beginnings in Nepal, likening it to the challenges faced by many in Eswatini. "Education is the key that opens doors to dreams I hadn’t even dared to dream," he shared, emphasizing the power of perseverance and belief in one’s potential.

Mr. Shah also touched on the recent global Summit of the Future held in New York, where world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future, a commitment to a better tomorrow with young people at the forefront of innovation and change. "You are the architects of tomorrow," he said, encouraging the students to believe in their power to shape their own destinies.

The event was attended by the Chief of the area, Prince Mgebiseni, adding a traditional touch of leadership and community engagement.  Mr. Shah reminded the students that their hard work is laying the foundation for a brighter future, not only for themselves but for their communities and country.

The United Nations continues to work closely with the government of Eswatini to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, and as part of this effort, the UN is developing the next Cooperation Framework for 2026-2030, with a particular focus on empowering young people and improving education.

The event not only celebrated academic excellence but also reinforced the critical partnership between education, community, and global development.