Eswatini launches Young Academy of Sciences to empower early-career researchers

The Ministry of ICT’s Research, Science, Technology, and Innovation department (RSTI) has officially launched the Eswatini Young Academy of Sciences (EYAS), a new platform designed to support early-career scientists and promote the role of science in national development.

The academy aims to bring together young researchers to collaborate, advise on science policy, promote science to the public, and support both government initiatives and fellow scientists.

Speaking at the launch of the EYAS constitution on behalf of the Ministry’s Principal Secretary, Under Secretary Macanjana Motsa said the initiative reflects the nation’s investment in “the brilliant, dynamic, and youthful minds.” She described the academy as a platform for nurturing curiosity and innovation.

RSTI Director, Dr. Rejoice Maseko emphasized the academy’s role in empowering youth to harness the transformative power of Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI). She paid tribute to the late Professor Lydia Makhubu, the first Swazi member of the African Academy of Sciences, and acknowledged the vision of King Sobhuza II, who underscored the importance of education and research for development as far back as 1972.

In her remarks, Dr. Maseko urged the nation to support the initiative, noting that “the measure of intelligence is the ability to change,” quoting Albert Einstein.

The launch was attended by the ICT Principal Secretary, representatives from the SADC Secretariat, as well as international delegates from South Africa, Lesotho, the South African Young Academy of Science (SAYAS), the Lesotho Young Academy of Science (LesYAS), and the Global Young Academy.

The Minister of Sports, Culture, and Youth Affairs, represented by Under Secretary Mzwandile Mthethwa, linked the initiative to broader youth empowerment efforts, stressing that rising youth unemployment must be addressed through proactive measures. He noted that EYAS could provide opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship by promoting youth engagement in science and technology.

He also encouraged the academy to register under the Eswatini National Youth Council to gain access to additional resources and ensure its representation in national youth development discussions.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye