The University of Eswatini (UNESWA) is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its teaching capabilities, particularly for its AI Academy programmes. As part of this effort, the institution is set to introduce AI-generated explainer videos to support future cohorts. These videos will provide step-by-step demonstrations of practical processes, including downloading and uploading documents. This development was announced during a certificate awarding ceremony at The George Hotel in Manzini, where the fourth cohort of the Mastering Generative AI for Professionals programme and the sixth cohort of the Generative AI for Educators programme were recognised.
The AI Academy has experienced significant growth, with over 2,000 people participating in various certificate programmes during 2026. This surge in participation underscores the increasing demand for AI skills in Eswatini. According to Professor Sandile Motsa, Director of the Institute of Postgraduate Studies and Coordinator of the UNESWA AI Academy, the Academy is adapting its delivery methods to keep pace with the rapid development of AI tools. The introduction of AI-generated explainer videos is part of this effort to make the programmes more accessible and easier to follow.
The University's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Justice Thwala, emphasised the importance of using AI responsibly and effectively. He noted that AI was no longer a distant concept for emaSwati, but rather an integral part of workplaces, classrooms, businesses, and institutions. Thwala cautioned that AI-generated content could be inaccurate, reproduce bias, or expose confidential information if used carelessly. Therefore, AI literacy is crucial, and it goes beyond simply knowing how to generate documents, images, or presentations.
The latest graduation ceremony brought together around 480 participants who completed the two programmes within the allocated period. Thwala reported that over 420 people had enrolled in the Mastering Generative AI for Professionals programme, with about 350 completing it, while more than 150 enrolled in the Generative AI for Educators programme and about 130 completed it. Participants who had not completed all the requirements within the allocated period will be given another opportunity to finish their outstanding work and qualify for their certificates.
To support a hybrid approach to future AI training, the University has established a smart classroom equipped with digital display screens and cameras. This setup will allow participants who require more direct assistance to attend sessions physically, while those comfortable with online learning can continue remotely. Thwala believes this will enable the Academy to reach a wider section of society while responding to different learning needs.
Graduates of the programme have expressed appreciation for the University's efforts to make the courses affordable and accessible. Nondumiso Mpanza-Motsa, one of the graduates, praised the University and the Academy for taking the country's economic circumstances into account when setting the cost of the programmes. Khabo Dlamini, another graduate, commended the structure of the programme, describing it as well-packaged and well-paced. The graduates believe the programme has provided them with valuable skills that can be applied in their workplaces, classrooms, and communities.
The AI Academy is a key part of UNESWA's vision to be a sustainable public university that impacts society and improves lives. Thwala challenged graduates to put their new skills to practical use, including solving problems, improving productivity, saving time, and making better decisions. The Academy's role is not simply to generate AI users, but to equip professionals and educators with skills that can be taken back into their respective fields. The University acknowledges the work of various individuals who served as facilitators, assisted with grading, and provided technical and administrative support.
Key points
- - The University of Eswatini introduces AI-generated explainer videos to support its AI Academy programmes. - Over 2,000 people have participated in the AI Academy's certificate programmes during 2026. - The University establishes a smart classroom to support a hybrid approach to future AI training.
