National and Official Languages
Swazi (Swati or siSwati), a Southern Bantu language, is the national language of Swaziland, and is spoken by approximately 95 percent of Swazis. Swazi and English are the country's two official languages, and proceedings of the Parliament of Swaziland take place in both languages.
Swazi language education is present in all national schools, and literacy in Swati, defined as the ability to read and write the language, is "very high" in Swaziland. Swazi is also used in mass media.
English is the medium of instruction, and is taught in all state and private schools. Competency in English is a prerequisite for admission into most post-secondary institutions.
Read more about this topic: Languages Of Swaziland
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