BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla and Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo have been praised for supporting the vulnerable people in Eswatini, including those who have the Down Syndrome.
This happened during the commemoration of World Down Syndrome Day 2025, which served as a significant platform to reinforce the principles of inclusivity, support, and advocacy for individuals with Down Syndrome.
The World Down Syndrome Day was commemorated on March 21, 2025 at Ekwetsembeni Special School in Mbabane. It was hosted by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO) in partnership with the Ministry of Education and development partners.
During the event, there was a collective expression of gratitude towards Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla and the Minister of Education Owen Nxumalo for their unwavering commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and enhancing educational resources.
The representative from the Regional Education Office emphasised the intrinsic value of individuals with Down Syndrome, characterising them as “wonderful creatures with special and wonderful needs.”
The Head Teacher acknowledged the pivotal role of parental care and expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s provision of essential resources, while the teachers’ representative underscored that the students had a fundamental need for love, play, and happiness.
A representative from the Eswatini Down Syndrome Association and the Federation of Organisations of People with Disabilities in Eswatini (FOSDWA) reiterated the importance of inclusive education, referencing the Disability Act 2018 and urging for increased government investment.
The Minister of Education, Owen Nxumalo, pledged to advocate for expanded school resources, acknowledging the resilience of people with Down Syndrome and the guiding influence of the Deputy Prime Minister. The United Nations representative commended the collaborative efforts in promoting inclusivity.
The Acting Prime Minister, Thulisile Dladla, announced the event’s theme, “Improve Our Support Systems,” and highlighted the importance of vocational training, community awareness, and technological assistance, affirming Eswatini’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The event collectively reinforced the necessity of strengthening support systems and fostering an inclusive environment for individuals with Down Syndrome and all disabilities.
