Mbabane – The Ministry of Education and Training has launched a Life Skills WhatsApp Chatbot to provide learners across Eswatini with timely advice on issues affecting their daily lives. The chatbot is accessible on WhatsApp number 78333392.
Acting Principal Secretary Lindiwe Dlamini said the launch was about expanding access to trusted information, guidance, psychosocial support messages, referral pathways and life skills content in a format that young people can easily reach, understand and use.
“In a rapidly changing world, our learners are faced with complex social, emotional, health, safety and developmental challenges. They are navigating peer pressure, migration-related vulnerabilities, violence, abuse, substance use, early and unintended pregnancy, mental health concerns, online risks, and uncertainty about their future. As a Ministry, we have a duty to ensure that education does not only prepare learners for examinations, but also prepares them for life,” she said. 
Dlamini said life skills education helps learners to make informed decisions, communicate effectively, manage emotions, build self-esteem, resolve conflict peacefully, resist negative peer pressure, seek help when in danger, and plan for their future. “These are the competencies that help young people remain in school, stay safe, relate positively with others and become responsible citizens,” she added.
The chatbot is expected to complement the work of teachers, counsellors, parents, social workers, health workers and child protection actors. Dlamini called on all these groups to embrace the tool and ensure learners know how to access it.
The Ministry acknowledged the support of Regional Save the Children, the International Organization for Migration and UNESCO in developing the platform.
