Nquthu- KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Social Development Mrs. Nonhlanhla Khoza and her counterparts in the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Bongiwe Sithile-Moloi came together to emphasize the importance of prioritizing education for all children, especially those with disabilities.
The MECs visited Inkosi Thathezakhe Special School in Nquthu, where they handed over uniforms to pupils, symbolizing the government’s commitment to supporting inclusive education and empowering children to reach their full potential.
MEC Khoza highlighted that no child should be denied an education, regardless of their family situation or background. It is the government’s belief that every child, irrespective of their condition or disability, should be given equal opportunities to access quality education.
To this end, the initiative to provide uniforms to learners across the province was introduced to remove barriers to learning and encourage students to concentrate on their education.
She stressed that education is an apex priority for the government, and they are committed to breaking the cycle of poverty and dependence by enabling every child to receive a complete education.
MEC Khoza reiterated that no child should be regarded as lost in the system, and the government will continue to work towards making education more inclusive for people with disabilities.
“In an effort to ease the burden on parents, particularly those living in lower- and middle-income families, our government has implemented scholar transport to alleviate the cost of travel for their children to schools. Additionally, the provision of uniforms to learners is yet another intervention aimed at reducing financial strain on parents who are facing challenges,” MEC Khoza stated.
Furthermore, MEC Khoza expressed concerns about the prejudice faced by learners who lack proper uniforms, often leading them to leave school and become vulnerable to labor exploitation. It was emphasized that children with disabilities should not be left behind in pursuing education to enhance their lives and future prospects.
The collaboration with the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) ensures that children with disabilities receive the necessary support and opportunities they deserve.
MEC Sithole-Moloi in her capacity as Legislature Constituency leader in Nquthu, praised the progress achieved by the Social Development and Education Departments in their efforts to create an inclusive learning environment for children with special needs.
She pledged to continue working with various government departments to provide comprehensive services to schools catering to special children in marginalized areas.
The focal point of attention during the event was Inkosi Thathezakhe Special School, established in 2014, which has received extensive government support to transform into a fully-functional special school for the increasing number of special needs children in the Nquthu region.
MEC Sithole-Moloi emphasized that this gesture would not only alleviate the financial burden on parents but also instill confidence and pride in the children, fostering a positive and conducive learning environment.
She added that the government was determined to address the challenges faced by families and ensure that all children, regardless of their condition, are included in the education system.
She reaffirmed the government’s dedication to nurturing an environment that caters to the unique needs of special children in Nquthu, as they believe that education is the key to unlocking a brighter future for all.
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Jointly issued by Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs and Department of Social Development