Govt ready for schools reopening, but …

MBABANE – Government says it is ready for the reopening of schools tomorrow, although some may not open due to flooded rivers and damaged access routes.

Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, Nanikie Mnisi, said preparations for the new term were complete, but recent heavy rains had affected accessibility to certain schools, particularly in rural areas.

She said the main concern was schools where learners are required to cross rivers or pedestrian bridges that are currently overflowing.

“In some areas, pupils will not be able to cross rivers to access schools due to safety concerns,” said Mnisi.

She explained that the ministry was monitoring the affected schools closely and expected conditions to improve following the cessation of rains.

Where access challenges persist, Mnisi said head teachers will be required to formally apply to the ministry for permission to postpone the opening of their schools.

“If the situation does not improve, those schools may be allowed to delay opening by up to a week,” she said.

Mnisi added that poor road conditions could also affect the delivery of food supplies under the school feeding programme at the affected schools.

 “In cases where food cannot be delivered because of damaged roads, feeding will be paused and will resume once pupils return,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Eswatini Principals Association (EPA) said at least 24 schools have pedestrian bridges that have deteriorated, posing safety risks for learners.

EPA Secretary General Mduduzi Masilela said the situation was more severe in rural areas, where learners rely on bridges to reach schools, especially after heavy rains.

He said the association is collecting information from principals nationwide to identify affected schools and alert the relevant authorities.

Mnisi also addressed concerns about learners being turned away due to unpaid fees, saying the ministry had received appeals from parents.

“We urge principals to exercise patience as payments from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister will be made soon,” she said.

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