By Ncaba Ntshakala
People with Down Syndrome deserve stronger support systems that empower them to lead independent and fulfilling lives. This was the message from Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla during the World Down Syndrome Day 2025 commemoration at Ekwetsembeni Special School.
Dladla stressed that Eswatini must do more to enhance vocational training, raise awareness, and use technology to support individuals with Down Syndrome and other disabilities. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a society where diversity is embraced and where people with disabilities are fully included in all aspects of life.
The event, hosted by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office in partnership with the Ministry of Education and development partners, focused on the theme “Improve Our Support Systems.” It served as a reminder of Eswatini’s responsibility to ensure that every person, regardless of ability, has access to the education, care, and resources needed to thrive.
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Dladla highlighted the need for stronger programmes and new initiatives that promote self-sufficiency for people with Down Syndrome, urging communities to take an active role in fostering inclusivity.
The commemoration was a call to action, a challenge to society to break barriers and create opportunities for those with disabilities to reach their full potential.
The event was a heartfelt gathering of key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Education, educators, development partners, parents, and advocacy groups. Expressions of gratitude were directed towards the Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Education Owen Nxumalo for their continued dedication to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and improving educational resources.
Their leadership was recognized as instrumental in driving progress towards a more inclusive society, particularly through policies and programs aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities.
The Regional Education Office representative delivered a message on the intrinsic worth of individuals with Down Syndrome, describing them as “wonderful creatures with special and wonderful needs.”
This sentiment resonated throughout the gathering where it reinforced the idea that people with disabilities should not be defined by their challenges but rather celebrated for their unique contributions to society.
The Head Teacher of Ekwetsembeni Special School highlighted the indispensable role of parental involvement in the development of children with Down Syndrome. She extended appreciation to the Ministry of Education for providing essential resources that have improved learning conditions and opportunities for students.
The teachers’ representative echoed this sentiment, stressing that beyond education, students with Down Syndrome require love, play, and happiness to develop holistically.
The Eswatini Down Syndrome Association and the Federation of Organizations of People with Disabilities in Eswatini (FOSDWA) used the occasion to push for greater government investment in inclusive education. Referring to the Disability Act of 2018, they called for more funding, improved infrastructure, and specialized training for educators to better support students with disabilities.
Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo pledged his support for expanded resources within special education institutions, acknowledging the resilience of individuals with Down Syndrome.
He commended the guiding influence of the Deputy Prime Minister in advancing policies that prioritize the needs of people with disabilities. His commitment to advocating for increased resources signalled the Ministry’s recognition of the pressing need to build a more inclusive education system.
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The United Nations representative, Margaret Thwala-Tembe, praised the collaborative efforts of Eswatini’s government and stakeholders in promoting inclusivity.
UN when recognizing the significance of World Down Syndrome Day, they highlighted the importance of global solidarity in strengthening environments where individuals with disabilities can fully participate in society.
The call for improved support systems was positioned as a universal imperative, transcending national borders to emphasize the shared responsibility of creating a more equitable world.
