TINKHUNDLA ADMIN & DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DELIVERY WITH UASF SUPPORT

“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to ESCCOM and the UASF for their unwavering support to the Ministry of Tinkhundla Administration and Development. Your assistance from 2021 to 2023 has been instrumental in our mission to decentralize government services and improve accessibility for our citizens. The installation of public Wi-Fi hotspots at Tinkhundla centers has significantly impacted our citizens, providing them with enhanced connectivity and access to vital services. Furthermore, the provision of end-user equipment for our officials working at Tinkhundla Service Centers has greatly improved our service delivery capabilities.

We also appreciate the ongoing collaboration with UASF and look forward to further support that can strengthen service delivery in the future. This partnership is crucial in fulfilling our mandate and benefiting the people of Eswatini. Thank you for your continuous support and commitment to our shared goals."

PROCUREMENT & DISTRIBUTION OF ASSISTIVE DEVICES, YEAR, 2022/2023

“On behalf of His Majesty's Government and the Ministry of Education and Training, I would like to express our gratitude to ESCCOM Board, Management, and staff for the continued support in ensuring that children and youth with disabilities have access to quality and equitable education.

Notably, in the year 2022/2023 we received communication assistive devices, software procured from Edit Micro Systems and Personalized chairs procured from Shona Quip. A total of nine (9) disabled students enrolled in tertiary institutions received laptops which were uploaded with software to enhance their learning. Furthermore, five primary and high schools selected from the four regions received thirty (30) laptops which were also uploaded with relevant software to enhance teaching and learning and were provided with free internet services through Jenny Internet Eswatini.

The assistive devices continue to help improve teaching pedagogy and guarantee meaningful engagement of our learners in the learning process, hence the achievement we are observing in our learners who have successfully completed high school. Once again, thank you for your continued support in promoting disability inclusion in the education system.”

INCLUSIVE EDUCATION WITH BROADBAND WI-FI ACCESS

“We extend our sincere appreciation for the continuous support in ensuring equitable access to quality education for all, including learners with special needs and disabilities. The impact of this support has been profoundly felt in five remarkable schools: Ekwetsembeni Special School, St. Joseph’s Mission, Mbasheni Primary School (inclusive model), Eqinisweni High, and Boyane High (Inclusive Secondary Schools). These institutions serve a significant number of children with unique needs, and the provision of assistive devices has been instrumental in enhancing their communication and learning experiences.

The introduction of broadband Wi-Fi hotspots is a vital moment in our journey toward more inclusive education. It serves as a beacon of connectivity, unlocking a world of differentiated approaches essential to accommodating the diverse learning styles of our learners. With internet access, our schools are now equipped to effortlessly download software and upload it to the learners' devices, expanding their horizons of learning. Moreover, this connectivity empowers our dedicated teachers to delve into research on contemporary topics aimed at catering to the richness of diversity within our student body.”

IDE MOBILE COMPUTER LABORATORY

“The generous contribution of a mobile lab containing 45 tablets from the UASF marked a significant step in advancing education through technology on an international scale. However, this support coincided with a period of increased student class boycotts, raising security concerns around safeguarding this valuable equipment during a tense climate. As a result, the initial focus of the lab deployment shifted towards staff training to ensure its safe and effective use.

In response to this challenging environment, the mobile lab became a hub for staff training. Course instructors utilized it for hands-on professional development, acquiring skills in creating instructional videos and enhancing their proficiency in online facilitation. This not only expanded their technological expertise but also improved their ability to engage students in innovative ways.

While student usage faced some constraints, such as limited disk space for pilot programming software like Java NetBeans, the strengthened security measures at the university have paved the way for expanding access to students. This expansion will particularly benefit coding classes and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)-enhanced lessons, reinforcing the commitment to providing a cutting-edge education experience through technology. The mobile lab's journey, from staff training to wider student usage, exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of the education sector in navigating challenging times and ensuring access to innovative learning tools.”

EQUIPMENT SUPPORT FOR CMIS

“The Ministry of Health would like to take this opportunity to pass sincere appreciation and gratitude to UASF for the continued immense support in systems strengthening as they continue to provide quality health care services through the use of technology in health facilities in the Kingdom of Eswatini.

The end user devices will play a key role in the improvement of health data management since it enables health practitioners to access client's medical history during outreaches, the system will be fully operational even when there are power outages and, data capturing happens without relying on the device being connected to the network. All these improvements are driving towards attainment of the Government's dream of ensuring that all Emaswati have access to health care services through the use of technology services. The Ministry is looking forward to a continued working relationship with UASF as they are an extended hand of the Ministry.”

SUPPORT TOWARDS PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AND ELDERLY PERSONS RECEIVING SOCIAL GRANTS

“The Office registers its appreciation for the unwavering support extended by your Office in the form of mobile gadgets donation to persons with disabilities. The Deputy Prime Minister's Office notes with gratitude that some of the recipients of these gadgets have started income generating activities to sustain their livelihoods and be self-sufficient through venturing into Mobile Money vending. This has restored pride and. dignity to the members of this community as they have become entrepreneurs. This kind of support has made a tremendous contribution to the betterment of the lives of people with disabilities.

The Office prides itself in this enduring partnership with your organization that has yielded positive results. This gesture will assist the Office in its quest of providing access to services and social safety nets which are most required by the vulnerable populations in the country and critical in buffering the impact of the challenges faced by these groups in society.”

EMPOWERING ESWATINI'S FUTURE THROUGH TECHNOLOGY

“In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, this donation arrives as a beacon of hope for our nation. The Ministry of Education and Training extends heartfelt gratitude for this timely support that uplifts our students, the future leaders of Eswatini.

This generous contribution of 21 trolleys and 945 laptops spans across 21 educational institutions, including the University of Eswatini's Institute of Distance Education. These tools are vital in bridging the digital gap, equipping our learners with the essential ICT skills they need for the twenty-first century. They facilitate digital literacy, provide access to a world of information, and empower teachers to enhance their lessons. In this journey toward a more connected and digitally inclusive education sector, the Fund's support is invaluable.

Efficiency and effectiveness are further amplified as ICT aids in streamlining administrative tasks and data collection. The Ministry is committed to guiding teachers and learners in using technology to improve education quality, cultivating lifelong learning. The impact of computer technology on education is undeniable, and this contribution adds substantial value to our educational institutions. It is a testament to the enduring partnership between the Ministry of ICT and ESCCOM through the UASF, reinforcing our shared mission of advancing education in Eswatini.”

ADVANCING INCLUSIVE EDUCATION WITH ASSISTIVE DEVICES

“We express our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support in our collective mission to make our education system truly inclusive, catering to all learners, including those with special needs and disabilities. Through the impactful initiative, we have taken significant strides in providing assistive devices that specifically target enhancing proper positioning, communication, and learning for children with cerebral palsy. The distribution of these life-changing devices has touched the lives of children from all four regions of our country, making a profound impact on their educational journey. The provision of thirty personalized mobility and positioning devices in the form of tailored wheelchairs from Shona quip stands as a testament to the dedication to inclusivity. These chairs are meticulously crafted to ensure proper eye contact, positioning, and are uniquely designed to suit the terrain of each child's home and school. They offer vital postural support, mitigate abnormal tones, and, most importantly, grant each child a taste of independence, fostering social inclusion.

Fifty-five GoTalk devices, including the GoTalk level 9, 20, and 32+, and the GoTalk Overlay Software, have been invaluable tools in enhancing communication for children facing speech challenges. Additionally, the provision of thirty Lenovo Touch Screen Convertible Laptops equipped with the Snap and Core First for Windows software has introduced a new dimension to communication, participation in teaching and learning, and social inclusion.”

Digitization of the Health Management Information System

“The Ministry of Health (MOH), through the Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) would like to thank you for your contribution to the improvement of health interventions. The Ministry of Health through the HMIS Unit has made laudable strides in digitization of the health management system which seeks to improve the way the health ministry offers service to the citizens. These achievements have been made possible through immense support from the Fund, Government, Development Partners, and other organizations.

As such, over 220 health facilities in the Kingdom of Eswatini can provide quality health care services using technology. This includes amongst other things, the last mile connection in the health facilities, CMIS Plus/Lite (Client Management Information Systems) for outreach sites service provision. This is an achievement indeed since real time data transmission is happening across board, this will ensure seamless continuity of patient care across mobile health services. Investments made into systems in the health sector translate into improved health services at all levels, particularly, at facility and community level.”

Strengthening DTT Network: A Grateful Acknowledgment

“The Ministry would like to extend its gratitude for the assistance received from the Commission towards strengthening the DTT network operated by the Department of Communications. The DTT facility has been having a challenge in maintaining stability of its network and ensuring 24/7 availability of signal to receivers of the DVB-T2 signal mainly due to power interruptions, malfunctioning components of the radio links, non-functional Network Monitoring System, and faulty monitoring infrastructure.

With your assistance, we have achieved: improved stability with standby generators at key transmitter sites, enhanced network efficiency with updated radio links, real-time network monitoring with a new system and vital equipment for seamless operations. The Ministry is immensely grateful for this support, which has enhanced the resilience of our DTT network as we continue to work towards network enhancements.”

Development & Deployment of a Learning Management System

“The Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) would like to express appreciation to the UASF for the continued support towards the provision of quality education and training to all irrespective of prevailing circumstances. Together with your organization, the MoET continues to reduce barriers to the access of education and training, including building a resilient education and training system which may not be adversely affected even during humanitarian emergencies.

It is on this note that the MoET with support from the Fund and UNICEF, has been working on customizing and deploying a Microsoft developed learning management system called the Learning Passport. I would like to highlight that the project is coordinated at the National Curriculum Centre which works with different stakeholders including subject inspectors and teachers to ensure that quality teaching and learning content is produced. As such, content for the six core subjects offered at senior secondary school has been created and is currently undergoing the first cycle of content review. This is the first stop towards quality assurance.”

Network Upgrade

"I am delighted to share the remarkable impact of the Rural Connectivity Project undertaken in partnership with the UASF. MTN's commitment to increasing rural connectivity has been instrumental in transforming communities.

By providing improved access to information and empowering the youth through education and upskilling, MTN is actively contributing to poverty reduction. This initiative has not only created jobs but also enhanced the overall quality of life for residents.

The upgrade to a 4G network is a pivotal step in stimulating economic development, particularly in remote communities. It has allowed businesses in these areas to thrive, facilitated digital learning in schools, and opened a world of opportunities for the youth. These remarkable enhancements have been extended to 23 Tinkhundla centers, impacting numerous lives positively. MTN's dedication to improving the network is a testament to their commitment to fostering progress in underserved regions. As MTN's Chief Executive Officer, I am proud of the company's unwavering dedication to bridging the digital divide and making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.”

ICT laboratory at Etjendlovu High School

"As the country strives to elevate the bar of education in Eswatini, we must ensure that schools are well-managed and supported by an infrastructure that fosters quality and sustainable development.. The new laboratories will serve as hubs for active learning, experimentation, and discovery, offering learners the chance to explore technology and various other hands-on disciplines in a real and meaningful way."