MBABANE: Government has started paying first year students at the University of Eswatini ( UNESWA) their allowances on Friday morning, following delays that were announced by Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security Thulani Mkhaliphi.

Speaking to this Swaziland News on Friday, Colani Maseko, the President of the Swaziland National Union of Students ( SNUS) confirmed that UNESWA first year students have received their allowances, however, he said others are still waiting for their money. Maseko condemned the delay in the processing of allowances by the Government and urged students to participate in the calls for a democratic government where education will be free and allowances be paid on time.

“We know in a democratic Government education will be free, allowances will be released on time, the education will be relevant and it will be a priority. Under a democratic government our leaders will be transparent and accountable to students and the people at large. We won’t be victimized, tortured, killed or be arrested' said the students union President.

Efforts to reach Thulani Mkhaliphi, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Labour proved unsuccessful at the time of compiling this report.

On Thursday, this publication reported earlier that the Government delayed University students allowances after assuring students and parents that the payment would be made not later than 31st March 2020.