As South Africa nears the end of the 2015 Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), Casual Day is wrapping up its 2015 campaign and launching its National Schools Programme for 2016.
Schools are encouraged to pledge their support for Casual Day and to twin up with mainstream schools in their area.
“South Africa commemorates National DRAM annually between November 3 and December 3,” said Casual Day’s project leader, Vanessa du Plessis.
“School governing bodies, teachers and parents are encouraged to put Casual Day on their official 2016 calendars now.
“DRAM provides South Africa with an opportunity to inspire hope and confidence in the ability of communities and the state machinery to work together in addressing the common challenges facing persons with disabilities and society in general.
“Since schools are a significant aspect of government and where values and morals are inculcated, we encourage government bodies to ensure that Casual Day is celebrated in every public and private school in South Africa.”
“Owned by the National Council for Persons with Physical Disabilities in South Africa (NCPPDSA) and sponsored by Edcon, Casual Day remains the most meaningful fund-raiser for persons with disabilities,” said Andrea Vinassa, media liaison for Casual Day.
“Casual Day is also a lifeline for many organisations serving the community of persons with disabilities in South Africa.”
Vinassa explained that December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and is also celebrated as National Disability Rights Awareness Day.
“It is important to note that government funding for NGOs working in the sector is inadequate and most of them survive on private donations, which means Casual Day is vital to these services,” she added.
“The country’s inclusive education programme has enabled expansion of facilities for children with disabilities in public ordinary (mainstream) schools.
“According to a study by NCPPDSA, children with disabilities are substantially less likely to attend school than their non-disabled peers.
“Furthermore, among those children with disabilities who do get access to schooling, drop-out rates are higher than for those who are not disabled.
“These figures are shocking and saddening, but Casual Day brings a huge ray of hope, because the awareness campaign around Casual Day puts a public focus on the needs of persons with disabilities.
“We do not only focus on children, but provide funding to the entire age spectrum.
“For example, Alzheimers South Africa raises funds for its research and awareness campaigns through Casual Day.
“Casual Day raises awareness of disability in an uplifting way, focusing on the positive contribution made by persons with disabilities to communities; it unites communities, focusing on compassion, giving and community spirit in action.”
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