Mbabane – The Minister of Education and Training,Owen Nxumalo, has been asked to withdraw his “no gays in schools” remarks by the Coordinating Assembly of Non-Governmental Organisations (CANGO) and its partners as organisations issue a variety of statements denouncing him.
“The Ministry of Education and Training to retract the discriminatory remarks and recommit to creating safe, inclusive learning environments,” the statement partly reads.
The remark is in response to an article that appeared in the Eswatini Observer on January 27, 2026.
During his visit to northern Hhohho schools as they prepare for the 2026 school year, Nxumalo remarked that homosexual relationships in public schools will not be accepted. According to reports, the minister threatened to expel students who engaged in same-sex relationships, saying that there is “no place for gays in schools.”
“These statements are alarming, discriminatory, and inconsistent with Eswatini’s constitutional commitments to dignity, equality, and non-discrimination,” CANGO said.
According to CANGO, Eswatini’s legal framework still falls short in terms of protecting LGBTQ+ people. However, international human rights norms and national inclusive education principles state that all students, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, must be treated with respect, safeguarded from harm, and given equal access to education.
CANGO said LGBTQ+ persons are faced with stigma and discrimination which directly impacts their health, safety, and wellbeing. The organisation also said education institutions must remain safe spaces that nurture learning, personal growth, and safety for all children.
“Threatening expulsion based on perceived sexual orientation not only violates basic human rights but also places vulnerable learners at heightened risk of mental health challenges, bullying, and school dropout.
“No learner should fear attending school because of who they are,” CANGO stated while calling for action.
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