Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini has called on graduates to rise to the challenge of transforming the economy through innovation, entrepreneurship and ethical leadership.
He was speaking during the Limkokwing University of Creative Technology graduation ceremony held yesterday at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre in Manzini. A total of 1 014 students graduated from the university, a decline from the 1 800 that graduated last year.
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In his keynote address, the PM lauded Limkokwing University for continuing to transform education and empower the youth noting its vital role in advancing His Majesty King Mswati III’s vision of a first-world Eswatini, as outlined in the National Development Plan and the Grand Plan for National Transformation.
“With approximately 58% of the country’s youth unemployed, institutions such as Limkokwing play a vital role in empowering young people to have a vision that goes beyond formal employment. Limkokwing graduates should not seek jobs, they should create them,” he said.
Dlamini commended the university for integrating entrepreneurship and creativity into its programmes, which he said aligned with government’s goal of fostering a private-sector-driven economy that creates jobs and wealth.
He further applauded Limkokwing for helping shift perceptions of technical and vocational education from a secondary option, to a strategic path toward national prosperity.
However, Dlamini also challenged the institution to raise its academic standards and deepen its local investment by moving all its offerings to full degrees and a campus, citing that the government remained committed to paying tuition and allowances for students.
“Bring the administration of this institution to the country and re-invest locally,” he urged.
‘Solve real-world problems’
Graduates were urged to use their skills to solve real-world problems and make meaningful contributions to society.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini drew a distinction between being “schooled” and “educated,” advising them to put their knowledge to good use.
“Education is not for all of us to be employed; it is for all of us to make a living. Choose to be someone who makes things happen,” he said.
The prime minister also used the occasion to warn young people on the dangers of HIV/AIDS, describing current infection rates among the youth as “unacceptable”. He called for a return to moral values, self-respect and responsible behaviour, emphasising abstinence and protection as essential steps in safeguarding the nation’s future.
Addressing the issue of corruption, Dlamini described it as a cancer that threatened to destroy the country. Therefore, he urged graduates to reject and expose all forms of corrupt practices.
“Our children must never grow up believing that corruption or sexual exploitation is acceptable. Let integrity and discipline be the cornerstone of our nation’s progress,” he declared.
The prime minister also reaffirmed government’s commitment to supporting educational institutions that champion innovation and integrity.
“Let us uphold His Majesty’s vision with renewed determination, to build an Eswatini that is educated, prosperous and free from corruption,” he said, congratulating the Limkokwing University Class of 2025.
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