MANZINI – In what could be termed a significant shift in the relationship between the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) and the community, the military is now participating in schools’ career guidance programmes.
This was disclosed by UEDF Public Affairs Officer Lieutenant Tengetile Khumalo, who said that on Wednesday, the army honoured an invitation from Amitofo Care Centre, with their personnel engaging pupils from Amitofo Primary and High School in the Shiselweni Region. The career day was held under the theme: ‘Every job counts, every dream counts’.
She said that as a military organisation, they recognise the importance of career guidance for learners at an early age, and for that reason, they honour invitations from schools for their career days. She highlighted that the first invitation they honoured was from Nkhanyeti Primary School in Manzini.
Khumalo said this interaction is part of a broader mission to demystify the defence force and highlight career opportunities within the military. It is changing perceptions of the army among both the youth and educators.
She said they do not just showcase career paths within the military, such as nursing, legal advisory roles, and engineering, among others, but also foster conversations that bridge gaps between the armed forces and civilians. She said this open dialogue is where misconceptions about the army are also directly addressed.
She also highlighted that, according to Amitofo Principal, Nontobeko Delport, the UEDF was traditionally viewed as an entity that, in some circles, had been seen as adversarial. However, Delport said the defence force’s presence cultivates a renewed image of the army as protectors and advisors.
“The Army has often been perceived as enemies of society, but today has shown us a different side,” said Delport.
The UEDF public affairs officer said the pupils were excited to learn about the professional paths within the defence force, and this will undoubtedly inspire many to consider a future in these fields. She said the event also featured vibrant traditional dances, enriching the day with cultural pride and community spirit. She said these performances were a reminder that as the UEDF seeks to draw closer to the community, they also embrace the heritage and values that shape the very nation they serve.
Moreover, she said that as a military organisation, they remain committed to responding to school invitations and raising awareness of the diverse career options available within their ranks. She added that such engagements underscore a promising commitment to youth empowerment and making a lasting impact on the lives of young Eswatini learners.
She said with their plans to honour more invitations from other schools across the country, the UEDF looks poised to not only attract young talent but to redefine its relationship with the communities it protects. She emphasised that in a world where stereotypes can easily take root, the UEDF is taking definitive steps to ensure that the narrative surrounding military service is one of opportunity, support, and connection.
Leave a comment