BY NELILE NXUMALO (INTERN)

MBABANE – In a move set to unlock new opportunities for emaSwati, the Eswatini Communications Commission (ESCOM) has launched a nationwide Information and Communication Technology skills audit aimed at identifying talent needs, creating employment pathways, and accelerating the country’s digital transformation.

The initiative, announced through a Request for Proposals , seeks to engage consultants to conduct a comprehensive study of the country’s ICT workforce. The audit is expected to map existing skills, identify emerging opportunities, and guide investments that will better prepare emaSwati for a rapidly evolving digital economy.

At its core, the exercise is designed to ensure that the country’s workforce is equipped with the right skills to meet growing demand across industries increasingly driven by technology. From banking and agriculture to manufacturing and small businesses, the need for ICT expertise continues to expand, presenting new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation.

For many young people entering the job market, the audit signals a step towards a more inclusive and responsive system where qualifications align with real industry needs. By identifying gaps early, the initiative is expected to help shape targeted training programmes, improve employability, and open doors for graduates seeking to establish careers in the tech sector.

The selected consultant will conduct a detailed skills gap analysis, benchmark qualifications against international standards, and assess the sector’s readiness for future technological demands. This forward-looking approach is expected to position Eswatini more competitively within the regional and global digital landscape.

Beyond assessment, the audit will also support the development of a national ICT competency framework. This framework will define professional standards and minimum qualifications, helping to strengthen the quality and consistency of skills across the sector while promoting confidence among employers and investors.

Importantly, ESCOM has placed strong emphasis on local empowerment. Proposals will be evaluated based on the inclusion of Swati professionals and clear plans for skills transfer, ensuring that the initiative not only gathers data but also builds lasting local capacity.

The skills audit is widely seen as a positive step towards building a knowledge driven economy one where emaSwati are empowered to participate meaningfully in the digital space. As the country continues to embrace innovation, such initiatives are expected to play a key role in bridging the gap between education and industry.

The tender process is currently underway, with submissions expected by April 17, 2026. Following evaluation, a consultant is set to be appointed within the same month.

Once completed, the study will serve as a foundational guide for Eswatini’s digital skills development, helping to shape policies, strengthen institutions, and ensure that no one is left behind in the country’s journey towards a digitally empowered future.

#SkillsDevelopment #ESCOM #FutureOfWork #EducationAndSkills #EconomicGrowth


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