The Leadership Growth Forum (LGF), in collaboration with the Eswatini Higher Education Council (ESHEC) and the Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC), will host a pivotal webinar titled “Bridging the Skills Gap in Eswatini: Insights from the 2025 National Skills Anticipation Report.”
This virtual event is scheduled for Wednesday, 25 June 2025, at 5:30 PM on Microsoft Teams. It aims to unpack the urgent issue of skills mismatches in Eswatini’s labour market and explore practical, data-driven solutions to equip the country’s workforce for the future.
Eswatini, like many developing economies, continues to grapple with the challenge of aligning education and training with the dynamic needs of the job market.
The 2025 National Skills Anticipation Report highlights specific sectors experiencing acute shortages, including engineering, technical trades, digital technology, and green industries. These gaps, if left unaddressed, threaten the country’s ability to compete regionally and globally.
“This webinar is a crucial opportunity to translate data into action,” said Phiwe Dlamini, LGF Media and Public Liaison Officer.
“We’re convening experts and stakeholders across sectors to discuss how Eswatini can strategically close its skills gap and prepare a workforce that is future-ready.”
The discussion will be moderated by Ms Sharon Maziya, President of the Institute of People Management (IPM) Eswatini. Her extensive experience in human capital development is expected to enrich the conversation, particularly as the country works to harmonize its education sector with its economic growth agenda.
The webinar will delve into how higher education and training institutions can align more closely with Eswatini’s economic priorities.
A key area of focus will be the persistent challenge where graduates, though qualified, are often not equipped with the skills demanded by employers. Special attention will be given to emerging fields such as digital technology and the green economy, which are poised to play a central role in driving future growth.
Another core theme of the event will be the development of inclusive, adaptable, and future-ready skills. The discussion is anticipated to highlight the importance of not only technical training but also soft skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork – skills increasingly essential in a rapidly evolving job market.
The conversation will also explore strategies to ensure that youth and marginalized groups are not left behind in the skills development agenda.
“We cannot talk about sustainable development without addressing the skills issue head-on,” added Dlamini. “This is about building a workforce not just for today’s needs, but for the opportunities and disruptions of the future.”
This timely webinar is designed to bring together a wide range of stakeholders, including employers and HR professionals, higher education and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) institutions, policymakers, government officials, development partners, and youth employment advocates.
By fostering dialogue and collaboration among these key players, the event seeks to lay the groundwork for more effective workforce planning and a stronger, more resilient economy.
With the participation link to be shared upon registration, those interested in attending can RSVP via WhatsApp at +268 7828 2825.