South Africa’s Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, has emphasised that significant strides are still required in supporting children with disabilities in their educational pursuits.
In a poignant statement, she articulated the critical responsibility of equipping these children with the skills necessary to lead independent and dignified lives. Gwarube affirmed that every child, irrespective of their abilities, deserves the opportunity to learn, thrive, and achieve the qualifications that pave the way for a fulfilling life.
“In as much as we’re not where we need to be, I think the recognition that there needs to be inclusive education in our country, one that caters for learners with special needs, is one that is at the forefront,” Gwarube said.
“My dream is to be able to see a child go to school, even with special needs, acquire a skill, get a certificate that says this learner has acquired this specific skill. They’re able to go to work and live a life of dignity for themselves, where they are not just dependent on their families for the rest of their lives. That is the power of creating inclusive education.”
The minister’s remarks come in the wake of increasing concern regarding the gaps within South Africa’s educational framework, particularly as it pertains to children needing additional support.
According to Channel Africa, despite ongoing initiatives aimed at adopting a more inclusive approach, numerous students find themselves deprived of essential resources or access to schools tailored to their needs, especially in rural communities. Consequently, families have no choice but to explore private or alternative educational routes, which are often prohibitively expensive or simply out of reach.
Furthermore, Gwarube’s statement resonates with advocates for special needs education, who are urgently requesting enhanced resources and specialised training for educators. Alongside this, there is a pressing demand for infrastructure upgrades to ensure equitable access to educational facilities for children with special needs.
“If we can make this a reality, children with disabilities will not only have the chance to learn, but also to become empowered contributors to society,” Gwarube concluded, signalling a hopeful vision for the future of inclusive education in South Africa.
