The Eswatini National Youth Council (ENYC) has officially recognised 89 young people who will receive practical toolkit support to help them put their technical and vocational skills to work. This initiative represents a E500 000 investment in young people across Hhohho, Lubombo, Manzini and Shiselweni regions. The beneficiaries are involved in various trades, including sewing, carpentry and electrical installation.
The programme aims to bridge the gap between possessing a qualification or skill and being able to use it to generate an income. Many young people have the knowledge but struggle to operate without necessary equipment. For instance, a sewing graduate may have the knowledge to produce clothing but lack a sewing machine, while a trained carpenter may need equipment to take on customer orders.
The support provided by ENYC goes beyond toolkits, with beneficiaries receiving assistance in areas such as financial literacy, entrepreneurship, record keeping and business management. These skills are crucial for running a business, as they require more than being good at a particular trade. Young entrepreneurs also need to understand how to manage money, keep records and plan for business growth.
The success of these young enterprises will depend on whether there is a market for their products and services. EmaSwati can play a direct role by supporting local young people with necessary skills when they need services such as tailoring, carpentry or electrical installation. Buying locally helps young people gain experience, build a customer base and earn an income.
By providing tools alongside business and financial training, the programme seeks to build a bridge between skills and economic opportunity. The ultimate measure of its impact will be seen in what happens after the support is received, whether beneficiaries can attract customers, generate income and sustain their businesses.
The ENYC has acknowledged all young people who applied but were not selected for the programme, with feedback from the selection process to be communicated. Applicants are encouraged to await communication for further information on the outcome of their applications. The council's initiative highlights the reality facing many young people: having a qualification does not automatically create employment.
The 89 young people now have an opportunity to take the next step and turn their skills into sustainable livelihoods. For emaSwati, the message is simple: when you need a service, look locally and support young artisans. This support could help build businesses that employ others in the future, keeping money circulating within the local economy.
Key points
- The Eswatini National Youth Council's TVET Support Programme is a E500 000 initiative that provides toolkits and training to 89 young people across four regions.
- The programme aims to bridge the gap between possessing a qualification or skill and being able to use it to generate an income.
- EmaSwati can support local young people with necessary skills by buying locally and helping them gain experience, build a customer base and earn an income.
