The DBE recently hosted a high-level delegation from the Ministry of Education and Training (MoET) in the Kingdom of Eswatini, for a week-long study visit focusing on Teaching at the Right Level (TaRL), an innovative approach that helps teachers meet learners where they are, rather than where the curriculum expects them to be.

The visit forms part of Eswatini’s ongoing efforts to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy in primary schools through the adoption of evidence-based and contextually relevant teaching strategies.

The Eswatini delegation spent most of the week in the Eastern Cape, where they observed TaRL being implemented in classrooms and engaged directly with teachers, learners, and education officials. These visits offered a first-hand look at how South African partners are using TaRL to strengthen foundational literacy and numeracy amongst primary school learners.

The visit concluded with a knowledge-sharing workshop at the DBE offices in Pretoria, bringing together DBE officials, provincial representatives, NGOs, and school leaders to reflect on the lessons learned. Discussions highlighted how South Africa’s experiences - including successes, challenges, and policy innovations - can inform Eswatini’s own journey towards improving foundational learning outcomes.

During the workshop, DBE representatives shared insights from across the system, including teacher development, literacy, and numeracy. Partners such as Youth Impact Education also spoke about their work in supporting teachers to adapt classroom practices to better suit learners’ needs.

As the delegation returns home, the Ministry of Education and Training in Eswatini will now consider how best to design and implement TaRL within their own national context. The visit reinforced the value of collaboration, shared learning, and innovation in addressing the global challenge of ensuring that all children acquire strong foundational skills.

The DBE remains committed to supporting peer learning and cross-country collaboration in the pursuit of quality foundational education across Southern Africa.