University of Eswatini - Financial and Operational Assessment : Synthesis Report

Overview & Synopsis

This report presents a financial and operational assessment of the University of Eswatini (UNESWA) and outlines a roadmap for institutional turnaround. The report finds that UNESWA has experienced persistent financial deficits, growing liabilities, declining enrollment, infrastructure deterioration, governance weaknesses, and quality assurance challenges. It highlights the university’s heavy dependence on government funding, high personnel costs, limited alternative revenue sources, and operational inefficiencies that have affected academic quality and institutional sustainability. The report recommends comprehensive reforms focused on governance restructuring, financial sustainability, human resource rationalization, academic program prioritization, quality enhancement, digital transformation, and improved student support services. It proposes a phased implementation plan encompassing short-, medium-, and long-term actions aimed at restoring financial stability, strengthening institutional performance, improving educational quality, and ensuring UNESWA’s long-term viability.