MBABANE: Thousands of students under the Swaziland National Union of Students (SNUS) banner have on Friday marched to the Prime Minister's office and the Ministry of Labour to demand Scholarships and jobs.
Addressing the students at the march, Colani Maseko, the Students Union President said every swazi child had a right to education.
“Article 11 of the African Charter stipulates that every child has the right to education, it is therefore for that reason that we are here to demand our rights", he said.
Eswatini, a tiny Kingdom in Southern Africa has about 70 % of it's population living below poverty line with a majority of the youth languishing at home jobless. Back in 2011, the government drafted a policy that slashed Scholarships by 60% .
Efforts to reach Thulani Mkhaliphi, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Labour and Social Security proved unsuccessful at the time of compiling this report but he had announced that government had awarded 3600 Scholarships out 4100 applicants.
Mlungisi Makhanya, the President of the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO ) when addressing the students today said as an organization they wanted an educated youth which is equipped with the relevant skills.
“We want young people who know that education and livelihood skills are very important ,we don't want young people who will undergo kubutseka for jobs”, said the PUDEMO President.
Thousands of young people marched to the Prime Minister’s office demanding scholarships and jobs for all.