BY KING’S OFFICE CORRESPONDENTS
BAKU, AZERBAIJAN– His Majesty King Mswati III has announced that students from Eswatini will begin enrolling at one of Baku’s leading oil and gas universities from next year, as the Kingdom deepens ties with Azerbaijan in the energy sector.
The King made the announcement during a visit to Baku Higher Oil School University, where he was warmly received as part of high-level engagements focused on human capital development and petroleum industry cooperation.
Speaking at the institution, which has grown from humble beginnings into one of the world’s foremost universities specialising in oil and gas, His Majesty expressed delight at the calibre of training offered.
“We are delighted to visit this facility which has been growing for many years and today trains a large number of talented young people, particularly those specialising in the oil and gas industry,” he said.
His Majesty emphasised the transformative power of properly managed natural resources, noting how Azerbaijan’s oil and gas sector had significantly advanced the country’s economy. He highlighted the importance of building local expertise to manage Eswatini’s own emerging petroleum ambitions, including the development of a strategic oil reserve.
The monarch, who also serves as Chairman of the University Council in Eswatini, said that although no EmaSwati students are currently enrolled, concrete steps will be taken to ensure enrolment begins next year. He expressed confidence that Eswatini students would benefit immensely from the university’s world-class programmes.
His Majesty further revealed that Eswatini is looking to establish strong exchange programmes with the institution and is actively seeking partnerships to train young Swazis in petroleum-related fields. The visit forms part of broader efforts to prepare Eswatini’s youth to manage future oil and gas infrastructure, including strategic fuel reserves currently under development.
The King praised the university for attracting students from across the globe and for its professional approach to training personnel capable of managing a modern petroleum industry. He drew parallels with Eswatini’s aspirations, stating that well-managed natural resources could become a powerful driver of economic transformation – a lesson Africa should heed.
The King, accompanied by Inkhosikati LaMashwama, was warmly received by the Chairman of the University, Elmar Gasimov, and staff.
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