Mbabane — Government has increased student allowances in response to rising living costs, admitting that many students are struggling to cope with higher prices for food, transport, and basic needs.
In an official year-end statement, the Prime Minister confirmed that monthly student allowances have been raised from E1,600 to E2,000, citing cost-of-living pressures affecting learners across the country.
The increase applies to students supported under government programmes and comes at a time when households are facing higher prices for electricity, transport, and basic goods. Officials said the adjustment was necessary to help students meet daily expenses while continuing their studies.
The announcement means an additional burden on the public purse, as government absorbs the higher cost at a time when budgets are already under pressure from disaster recovery, energy imports, and rising social spending.
Students have long complained that the previous allowance was no longer sufficient. Transport fares, accommodation costs, and food prices have steadily increased, leaving many learners relying on family support or informal work to make ends meet.
Government acknowledged these challenges, stating that the allowance review was driven by “economic realities” and the need to protect access to education. The Prime Minister said the move was intended to ensure students are not forced to drop out due to financial hardship.
While the increase has been welcomed by students, it also highlights the broader impact of inflation on public finances. Each adjustment to social support programmes adds pressure to government spending, which is already stretched by competing priorities.
Officials did not indicate whether further increases are planned, but said allowances will continue to be reviewed against economic conditions.
The move comes amid wider concerns about the rising cost of living, with households across the country reporting difficulty keeping up with everyday expenses. For students, the allowance increase offers some relief — but also underscores how hard inflation is hitting even the most basic support systems.
For now, government says the adjustment is part of efforts to cushion vulnerable groups as economic pressures continue to bite.
