Prime Highlights:
- The EU, along with Belgium, Finland, and France, has partnered with Eswatini’s Ministry of Education to launch RITA, a program aimed at improving teacher training and supporting Competency-Based Education (CBE).
- The initiative provides technical expertise rather than financial aid, focusing on strengthening teachers’ skills and enhancing the country’s education system.
Key Facts:
- RITA will focus on five areas: building CBE capacity, updating teacher training curricula, implementing the Council of Educators Act, developing Grade 8–11 CBE syllabi, and creating a framework for in-service teacher training.
- The program was launched under the theme “Empowering Teachers for Eswatini’s Future” and brought together teachers, government officials, and development partners.
Background:
The European Union (EU), together with Belgium, Finland, and France, has joined Eswatini’s Ministry of Education and Training to launch the EU-Regional Teachers Initiative for Africa (RITA) in Eswatini. The program aims to improve teacher training and support the country’s move to Competency-Based Education (CBE).
Unlike typical aid programs, the initiative does not provide direct financial support. Instead, it offers technical expertise to help improve education reforms across the country. The program will focus on five key areas: building CBE capacity, updating teacher training curricula to meet global standards, implementing the Council of Educators Act, developing CBE syllabi for Grades 8–11, and creating a framework for in-service teacher training.
At the launch in Mbabane, EU Ambassador to Eswatini, Karsten Mecklenburg, highlighted the importance of education for the next generation. “Education is more than a policy priority; it is a promise to the next generation. A promise that every child, every teacher, and every citizen will have an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society,” he said.
Finnish Ambassador to Eswatini, Satu Lassila, highlighted the role of the partnership in promoting a knowledge-driven future. “This initiative will help build the foundation for a future where education equips every citizen with skills to succeed,” she said.
Eswatini’s Minister of Education and Training, Owen Nxumalo, thanked the EU and its Member States for their commitment. He said the initiative reflects a strong partnership and shared values in advancing education in the country.
The program, called “Empowering Teachers for Eswatini’s Future,” brought together teachers, education partners, and government officials. By giving teachers the skills and tools to teach Competency-Based Education (CBE), the initiative aims to improve learning and support changes in Eswatini’s education system.
With technical support and teamwork, RITA Eswatini aims to strengthen teachers, raise education standards, and help students gain the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the 21st century.
