BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MATSAPHA – The Institute of Development Management (IDM) in Eswatini is entering a new phase of change, with leadership placing strong focus on staff development as the foundation for institutional excellence.
This shift reflects a broader effort to strengthen internal systems as the institution settles into its recent independence.
Collective bargaining training strengthens workplace understanding
Last week, IDM staff took part in a training session on Collective Bargaining and Negotiation Skills, facilitated by Business Eswatini. While it formed part of routine capacity building, the session is viewed as an important step in strengthening workplace relations and institutional stability.
The training covered key areas such as negotiation processes, labour law requirements, conflict management, the role of trade unions, and best practices in handling workplace disputes.
Staff also engaged on issues such as agency shop agreements, recognition and de-recognition procedures, and the qualities required for effective negotiation.
New chapter following institutional independence
The training comes at a significant time for IDM Eswatini, which recently became an independent institution after operating for years under the BOLESWA framework established in 1974 across Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini.
The institution is now led on an interim basis by Mr Karabo Baipidi from Botswana, who has outlined a vision focused on student success and employability.
“IDM is committed to ensuring that students are at the heart of this transformation,” Mr Baipidi said. “We are focused on an employability strategy, establishing an alumni chapter and facilitating a volunteer chapter to expose students to industry and enhance their employability.”
Building internal capacity for long-term stability
Staff members say the training reflects the realities of a transitioning institution, where strong internal systems are needed to support long-term growth and stability.
Through its membership with Business Eswatini, IDM has access to internationally aligned training programmes, including those guided by International Labour Organization (ILO) standards.
Additional programmes available include grievance handling, discipline and fair appeals processes, as well as workplace violence and harassment prevention.
Beyond policy: turning plans into practice
IDM has also introduced an Internationalization Policy aimed at supporting international students and strengthening cross-border academic engagement.
However, leadership acknowledges that policies alone are not enough, stressing the importance of equipping staff with the skills needed to implement them effectively.
People at the heart of transformation
The institution’s efforts to strengthen staff capacity form part of a broader plan to position IDM as a centre of excellence in both academic delivery and institutional management.
As focus grows on employability, alumni engagement and industry exposure, leadership maintains that investing in people remains central to the institution’s direction.
For IDM Eswatini, the path forward is being shaped not only by vision, but by the people tasked with bringing it to life.
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