On January 30, 2025, at the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) Kwaluseni Main Conference Hall, the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF) proudly awarded a 200,000 Emalangeni bursary sponsorship to Khumbuzile Mbhamali, a second-year student at UNESWA. This bursary, which will cover both her tuition and living expenses, is a testament to ENPF’s deep commitment to empowering vulnerable individuals and supporting those who face significant challenges in their pursuit of education.
Khumbuzile, who has overcome multiple barriers due to her disability, has shown immense dedication and perseverance in her academic journey. The bursary will relieve her of financial burdens, enabling her to focus fully on her studies and realize her full potential.
ENPF’s Commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
This sponsorship is part of ENPF’s broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, which aims to uplift vulnerable members of society, especially those with disabilities and the elderly. As part of its mandate, ENPF seeks to make a tangible difference by providing support that empowers individuals and ensures they can lead dignified lives.
The Fund’s CSR efforts are not new, as it has a history of supporting people in need. In fact, Khumbuzile’s sponsorship follows a similar initiative for Siboniso Dlamini, a previous beneficiary who was awarded a bursary to pursue his LLB degree. Siboniso, who also lives with a disability, successfully completed his studies and interned at ENPF, becoming an integral part of the team. His journey showcases the lasting impact of ENPF’s CSR efforts, offering not just academic support but also career-building opportunities.
Empowering People with Disabilities
ENPF’s support for Khumbuzile highlights the Fund’s ongoing commitment to empowering people with disabilities. The Fund recognizes that many individuals face significant challenges in accessing education, employment, and resources. By offering financial assistance for tuition, textbooks, and living expenses, ENPF helps level the playing field for students like Khumbuzile, allowing them to pursue higher education without the added pressure of financial constraints.
Additionally, ENPF’s CSR initiatives has in the past included the provision of transportation services for individuals with disabilities to ensure they have equal access to vocational schools and other educational opportunities. Through these programs, ENPF is actively working to remove barriers that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in society and reaching their potential.
A Legacy of Support: From Khumbuzile to Sibusiso
Khumbuzile’s bursary is just one example of how ENPF’s CSR initiatives have transformed lives. The stories of Khumbuzile and Siboniso stand as powerful testaments to the Fund’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for vulnerable individuals. Both beneficiaries have been given the means to pursue their education, and their success stories prove that education is a powerful tool for empowerment.
While Khumbuzile’s sponsorship ensures that she has the financial resources to continue her academic journey, it also serves as a reminder of the impact ENPF has had on students and communities. As ENPF CEO Ms. Futhi Tembe stated, “At ENPF, we believe in the potential of every individual,” and Khumbuzile’s journey exemplifies the Fund’s belief in the power of opportunity.
ENPF’s Broader CSR Impact: Supporting the Elderly and Vulnerable
While the sponsorship of students like Khumbuzile and Siboniso is part of ENPF’s CSR efforts, the Fund’s work extends to other vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly. ENPF has made significant contributions to ensuring that senior citizens in Eswatini receive the care and support they need. Through initiatives such as the construction of homes for the elderly and donations of medical supplies and food, ENPF helps ensure that elderly citizens can live with dignity.
ENPF’s Broader CSR Impact: Supporting the Elderly and Vulnerable
The handing over ceremony on January 30, 2025, was attended by several esteemed guests, including ENPF Board Chairperson Mr. Mduduzi Gina, ENPF CEO Ms. Futhi Tembe, Professor Tendekayi Henry Gadaga from UNESWA, and Khumbuzile’s mother, along with members of the ENPF CSR team. This gathering symbolized a collective effort to make a positive difference in the life of a promising student and served as a reminder of the importance of supporting vulnerable groups in society.
ENPF remains committed to corporate social responsibility and the transformative power of education. Through its initiatives, the Fund is not only providing financial support but is also investing in the future of Eswatini, creating pathways for a more inclusive, prosperous, and equitable society.
Khumbuzile’s success will be a beacon of hope for many others, proving that with the right support, all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, can achieve greatness.
