By Phiwa Sikhondze
MTN Eswatini, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET), has officially handed over a newly constructed ablution facility to St Joseph’s Primary School.
The project, valued at E1, 258,820.27, is expected to significantly improve hygiene and sanitation standards for the 390 learners at the school. The investment includes eight standard toilets and three disability-friendly units, benefiting the school’s 390 learners, including 30 wheelchair-bound students.
The male section includes: 6 urinals, 4 standard toilets, and 1 disabled-access toilet. The female section on the other hand consists of: 4 standard toilets and 2 disabled-access toilets.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, the Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Training, Bheki Gama, expressed gratitude to MTN Eswatini for its continued investment in education, noting that such initiatives enhance the learning environment and ensure student welfare.
“These magnificent and inclusive toilets are a testament to MTN Eswatini’s commitment to improving school infrastructure. The government is grateful for this investment, which directly benefits learners by providing them with a safer and healthier environment,” he said.
The newly built facility replaces outdated and hazardous toilets that had long been a challenge for the school. The PS highlighted that the previous facilities posed serious health risks to students, including exposure to unhygienic conditions and potential dangers such as snakes.
MTN Eswatini’s Chief Executive Officer, Wandile Mtshali, emphasized that this project aligns with the company’s corporate social responsibility efforts, particularly in education and community development.
“St Joseph’s has always been a model of inclusivity, providing quality education to children of all backgrounds and abilities. We are proud to return here after our 2016 drainage system restoration project to celebrate yet another milestone,” he said.
The CEO further encouraged teachers and students to embrace digital learning by utilizing MTN’s Skills Academy and MTN Khanyisa platforms, which provide revision materials and past exam papers to enhance learning.
The MOET hailed MTN Eswatini’s contribution and expressed hope that other corporate entities would follow suit in supporting school infrastructure projects.
“This partnership demonstrates how the private sector can play a crucial role in the development of the country’s education system. We urge other businesses to invest in similar projects that benefit the nation’s future generations,” the Principal Secretary stated.