Mpumalanga Provincial Education Disability Indaba a success
The MEC for education, Bonakele Majuba, said all role players must work together to create a more inclusive society in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
On a mission to discuss how the Mpumalanga Department of Education can improve the lives of people with disabilities through the delivery of quality education, a Provincial Education Disability Indaba was hosted at Nomanini Lodge in White River on September 12 and 13.
The MEC for education, Bonakele Majuba, and the leadership of various organisations that represent people with disabilities, attended the indaba, which was used as a platform to give progress feedback on the advancement course of such learners.
In his speech, Majuba said he was honoured to discuss the important issue of the rights of these people and to learn from this collective what the department must do to work together to deliver and address matters pertaining.
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“The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa guarantees the rights of all people, regardless of their ability. This includes the right to education, employment, healthcare and participation in society. However, we know that many people or children with disabilities still face some form of exclusion. Some are deprived access to opportunities, and they may be stigmatised and marginalised. This is unacceptable. We must all work together to create a more inclusive society in which everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”
Majuba said there is already areas in which some progress have been recorded.
“There are 18 special schools that have a total of 5 174 learners, with about 500 teachers. The schools cater for a number of learners who require moderate and intensive care and support. These schools help in supporting and empowering children with disabilities to free their potential. We know this might not be adequate, but they provide a formidable base for the province to build on going forward.”
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According to Majuba, there is room for improvement.
“However, we must learn to acknowledge the good work done by the current government while we request for more. The department has over the years worked with the Transnet Phelophepha Health Train to address issues for learners with albinism. We need to ensure that all children with disabilities have access to quality education, regardless of their social status. We also need to improve the infrastructure of our special schools and create an enabling environment to strive and instil a sense of belonging and pride for learners with disabilities. Some of the special schools are in poor condition and do not have the resources they need to meet the needs of their learners.”
In conclusion, Majuba said he believes they can create a more inclusive society for people with disabilities.
