MBABANE –Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, Nanikie Mnisi, has affirmed that schools will reopen as scheduled in accordance with the school calendar tomorrow.
It is worth noting that the ministry had previously issued a clarification following false statements circulating on social media suggesting that new dates had been set for the reopening of schools.In a follow-up interview yesterday, Mnisi clarified that schools would open for the third term on September 9, 2026.
She also stated that pupils residing within school facilities were expected to return today. Mnisi dismissed claims of any dilemma regarding the reopening of schools. She emphasised that, as far as she was aware, the ministry had not made any errors concerning the reopening process.
“The government has begun paying the Free Primary Education grants, and the procurement of food is ongoing.
“We hope that by the end of the month, the procurement process will be completed, and the food will be delivered to schools. There is no crisis, as the public has been led to believe,” Mnisi stated. Additionally, Mnisi said there had been no communication from the authorities regarding a postponement of schools’ opening due to the upcoming second leg of the annual Umhlanga Ceremony, scheduled to take place at Mbangweni Royal Residence this weekend.
She explained that it had always been customary for the second leg of the annual event to take place after schools had opened for the third term. She said the relevant authorities had always made and communicated arrangements regarding pupils attending the event.
Meanwhile, security measures have been heightened in Shiselweni ahead of this weekend’s Umhlanga Ceremony at Mbangweni, authorities have confirmed. Preparations for the southern leg of the annual national cultural event are in their final stages, with traditional leaders across the region organising maidens, reeds and pre-departure teachings.
Shiselweni Regional Administrator Themba Nhlanganiso Masuku said security had been given particular attention as preparations gathered momentum.
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