AMERICAN CORNER TO TRAIN 48 PUPILS

MANZINI- It is exciting news for Manzini folk as the American spaces will be offering robotics sessions to 48 high school pupils.

The good news was shared by Head of US Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Earl Miller during the launch of the American Corner at the Manzini National Library. The event took place on Tuesday evening. Miller, in one of his first public appearances since taking up the position as head of the US Embassy, expressed his excitement to be part of the event. “For Manzini, we already have some exciting programmes getting underway, as you can see from the presentation running in the back of the room.  For example, in partnership with US programme alumni, we are offering robotics sessions through the Technovation Hub every Saturday until July,” he said. The US Embassy head further shared that the sessions were available to 48 high school pupils who were selected on a competitive basis. He mentioned that the top cohort of these pupils would go on to represent Eswatini in the First Global Challenge in October 2023.  

Meanwhile, he revealed that in partnership with the University of Iowa through the Jacobson Institute, they were also planning an entrepreneurship programme for 40 out of school youth. “The programme, called Bizinnovator, will be led by two alumni of our YALI Mandela Washington Fellowship, and it will commence in April/May,” he announced. The head of the US Embassy stated that the value of these kinds of spaces was hard to quantify. He mentioned that the American Corner, like so many others around the world, would serve as a gathering place for young people to access information, the internet, and other resources free of charge. “This is a place where people can learn and share ideas, express their thoughts, or cordially debate a difficult topic.  We know there are some difficult conversations happening in Eswatini right now.  We are here to support the country as it finds its way to peace and healing through conversations and constructive dialogue that address issues of concern to emaSwati,” he said.

Miller articulated that together with resources such as this, they could help build a stronger nation where all could reach their full potential. “The American Corner Manzini provides a welcoming atmosphere and is where many visitors may gain their first insights into America. It is a US Embassy partnership with the Eswatini National Library Services that demonstrates the US commitment to building strong bonds with the people of Eswatini,” Miller quipped. Meanwhile, he extended his appreciation to Dudu Dlamini, Acting Director of ENLS, for the critical role she played in making the space available to them. Miller further thanked the Eswatini National Library Service (ENLS) which had been a strong ally and partner to the US Embassy since they opened their first American corner in the Nhlangano Public Library in 2004.  

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