Eswatini Launches National Labour Market Skills Project (NLMSP)
The Minister for Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezi, officially launched the National Labour Market Skills Project (NLMSP), marking an important journey in Eswatini’s human capital development agenda. The launch was attended by industry players, public institutions, higher education training institutions, civil society, development partners, and the media.
During his keynote address, the Minister highlighted the importance of the NLMSP, emphasising that it is much more than just a survey, but a project that will lead to the development of actionable and practical steps for the government to build a relevant and competitive human resource. The Minister emphasised the need for Eswatini to capitalise on the country’s biggest asset – its people – for job creation and economic development.
The NLMSP aims to address the gaps in knowledge, information, and statistics on labour market needs. It seeks to identify the skills needed for industries to grow and compete globally, recognising the existing skill shortages and developing strategies to address them. The data collected through this survey will form the foundation for policy and programme development. It will enhance human capital and ensure that the country’s workforce is not only prepared for today’s challenges but is also ready for tomorrow’s opportunities.
This is an evidence-based initiative designed to provide relevant information to align the nation’s education and training system with the demands of the labour market. The collaborative efforts of the Taiwan Technical Mission, Eswatini Higher Education Council (ESHEC) and Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC) seek to ensure that all facets of skills development are prioritised, and the harmonisation of efforts is achieved. The official launch of the NLMSP marks the beginning of an ambitious project that will guide investments in skills development and produce up to date information on supply and demand, ensuring the accurate estimation and anticipation of future demand. The reports from this assessment will guide policymaking, enhance human resource development, and ensure that vocational training is aligned with industry demands.
As the project unfolds, we call upon all stakeholders to partner with us as we shape tomorrow’s skills today.
