MANZINI – “Challenge the status quo and use your education to make a meaningful impact in your communities and industries.”
These were the words of Prime Minister (PM) Russell Mmiso Dlamini as he urged the 10th graduating class of 2024 from Limkokwing University of Creative Technology (LUCT) to embrace entrepreneurship as a path to both personal fulfilment and societal contribution. A total of 1 800 students were conferred with their associate and bachelor’s degrees at the packed Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre yesterday, surrounded by their families and friends.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement, as graduates celebrated their achievements through singing and dancing. They had earned degrees in fields such as Public Relations, Journalism, Business Information and Technology, Information Technology, Creative Multimedia, and Music and Arts. Other graduates were conferred degrees in Architectural Technology and a variety of other disciplines.
Speaking to the future leaders, the premier, who was represented by the Minister of Economic Planning, Dr Tambo Gina, emphasised the importance of not only being prepared for the local job market, but also for the global arena. Additionally, he advised them to focus on job creation, thereby contributing to the economic growth and development of the country.
In his address, the premier spoke about the interconnectedness of the world today and how Eswatini’s youth must embrace the challenges and opportunities of globalisation.
The PM addressed the graduates of LUCT, urging them to consider entrepreneurship as a viable path to self-realisation and job creation. He emphasised the importance of this spirit of entrepreneurship for economic empowerment in Eswatini, noting that the skills they gained at Limkokwing should inspire them to innovate, build businesses and lead with purpose.
He acknowledged the diverse backgrounds of the graduates, but pointed out that they shared a common purpose: to contribute to the prosperity and well-being of Eswatini. The PM encouraged them to remain committed to the unity of the nation and to work together towards a shared vision for the future.
Globalisation
In his address, the premier spoke about the interconnectedness of the world today and how Eswatini’s youth must embrace the challenges and opportunities of globalisation. “Your education at Limkokwing has not only prepared you for the local job market but also equipped you for success on the global stage. The skills and knowledge you have gained will enable you to thrive in any environment, no matter how competitive,” he said.
The PM also reiterated Eswatini’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic, trade and cultural ties with the international community. He urged the graduates to be ready to represent the country as ambassadors of innovation, creativity and excellence on the world stage. As the graduates prepare to leave the university, Dlamini called on them to step forward as leaders who will shape the future of Eswatini, Africa and beyond. He challenged them to question the status quo, use their education to create a meaningful impact and recognised that this is only the beginning of their journey.
He reminded the graduates that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and that they should embrace lifelong learning. He encouraged them to strive to be agents of positive change, and to ensure that their work serves as a testament to their commitment to progress and excellence. Prime Minister Dlamini extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2024, praising them for the resilience, dedication and perseverance that had brought them to this milestone. He acknowledged that the nation’s aspirations could only be realised through collaboration across all sectors, and that institutions like Limkokwing play a vital role in this process.
Critical
Looking ahead, he noted that innovation and creativity are key to the diversification of Eswatini’s economy. He highlighted the critical role Limkokwing University plays in providing a platform for young people to develop skills that are in line with the demands of the 21st century. He specifically mentioned fields such as Public Relations, Business Management, Information Technology, and other creative disciplines as areas where the graduates’ training would make significant contributions to both Eswatini’s growth and their participation on the world stage. The PM recognised the challenges young people face today, particularly in securing meaningful employment, but stressed that education opens doors to self-employment, entrepreneurship and leadership.
He assured the graduates that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment for them to thrive. He outlined the government’s economic policies, which focus on fostering entrepreneurship, creating job opportunities and developing innovation hubs to help young people realise their dreams. He concluded by stressing that education is the cornerstone of Eswatini’s national development. He said that the future of the nation does not depend solely on physical infrastructure but also on the strength of its human capital.
He added that education empowers individuals, strengthens communities and drives economic progress. The Prime Minister underscored that the graduates are now central to the nation’s aspirations for sustainable development, resilience and innovation. Once again, Prime Minister Dlamini congratulated the Class of 2024. He expressed immense pride in their achievements and said he looks forward to seeing the positive impact they will make. He reminded them that the world awaited their talents, innovation, and leadership, and urged them to go forward with courage and purpose.
