ONE Billion Rising Regional Coordinator Colani Hlatshwako has strongly condemned recent remarks attributed to the Minister of Education suggesting that there is “no place for homosexuals in schools”.
She described the statement as deeply troubling, unacceptable, and harmful to pupils. Hlatshwako said schools existed to educate and protect all pupils, not to stigmatise or exclude them based on their identity. She stressed that such comments, coming from a senior government official responsible for education, undermined the very purpose of schools as safe spaces for learning, growth, and development.
Speaking in a statement, Hlatshwako noted that language which marginalised certain groups of pupils promoted discrimination and fear within the education system.
She added that the remarks contradicted fundamental principles of equality, inclusion, and respect, which were meant to guide public institutions and leadership.
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“A statement claiming there is no place for homosexuals in schools sends a dangerous message to pupils who already face stigma and bullying. Instead of feeling protected, pupils are made to feel unsafe, unwelcome, and targeted,” she said.
Hlatshwako further emphasised that the role of the ministry was to ensure that every child, regardless of background or identity, had access to a safe and supportive learning environment.
According to Hlatshwako, education should empower young people, not silence or shame them.
She also highlighted that discrimination in schools could have long-term negative effects on pupils, including poor academic performance, mental health challenges, and increased dropout rates.
“We expect leadership that unites society, not statements that divide communities and put children at risk. Schools must be places where human dignity is respected and protected,” she said.
Hlatshwako called on the Ministry of Education to reaffirm its commitment to protecting all pupils and to promote policies that foster inclusion and mutual respect within schools.
She urged authorities to engage with civil society and child rights organisations to ensure that education policies aligned with national and international human rights standards.
Hlatshwako further stated that governments were meant to uphold values that safeguard every child, adding that language which marginalises pupils has no place in an education system that seeks to build a just and inclusive society.
