The launch of the National Skills Anticipation Report marks an important milestone in improving and contributing to the development of Eswatini’s workforce. This event marked the successful implementation of the National Labour Market Skills Project, a collaboration between the Eswatini Higher Education Council (ESHEC), Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC), and Taiwan Technical Mission.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Thabo Sacolo, Executive Director of ESEPARC, emphasised the importance of anticipating workforce needs in an ever-changing skills landscape. He highlighted that without strategic skills forecasting, the country risks stagnation.
“We cannot look at the future while going backward. The skills landscape is changing rapidly, hence it is necessary to conduct this skills anticipation study, working closely with both employers and training institutions. This ensures that as we transition into the Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolutions, we are well-prepared for the demands of the future.”
Dr. Sacolo noted that while developed nations are advancing rapidly in emerging technologies, Eswatini is still grappling with industrialisation, making it critical to understand the specific skills needed to drive growth and development in the local economy. He stressed the need to assess whether training institutions are adequately equipped to provide these skills.
Implications for Stakeholders
For training institutions, skills anticipation means proactively aligning educational programs with industry needs. Institutions use the forecast skill demands to inform their curricula to prepare graduates for emerging job markets.
For the private sector, this initiative presents an opportunity to plan for workforce development. Dr. Sacolo pointed out the challenges of acquiring skilled labour within Eswatini and the difficulties of importing talent due to regulatory hurdles.
Collaboration for Success
The Executive Director of ESEPARC expressed gratitude to all stakeholders whose contributions made the report a success.
“At ESEPARC, we have research models, computing tools, and experts, but without data and insights from you as stakeholders, this study would not have been possible. The support we received was truly commendable. It is not common to have a partner that not only assigns a task but also actively supports you throughout the process.”
He also extended appreciation to the ESEPARC team for their dedication in ensuring the completion of this crucial study.
Looking Ahead
The findings of this study will serve as a foundation for policy reforms, training improvements, and economic growth.
