EAST LONDON- The University of Fort Hare recently held the Youth Disability Inclusion Program, organized by the Office of the Executive Mayor of Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality.
The event aimed to promote inclusive education and employment opportunities for young people with disabilities.
With participants including individuals with disabilities, academics, policymakers, and civil society members, the program focused on the theme ‘Mainstreaming Youth with Disabilities: Opportunities, Challenges and Collaborative Solutions.’
Dr. Bellita Banda, the interim Chair in Sexualities and Genders at UFH, praised the initiative for its forward-thinking approach towards mainstreaming youth with disabilities in educational institutions.
Salizwa Kotobe, Youth Manager at BCMM, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to address the inclusion of disadvantaged youth with disabilities in economic and educational spheres.
The program featured panel discussions and a visit to the Khayalethu Protective Workwear Centre, which supports youth with autism and intellectual disabilities with skills development and employment opportunities.
Yomelelani Mabaso, Chairperson of Students living with Disabilities, stressed the need for inclusive practices beyond academic settings, advocating for comprehensive inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life.
Representatives from various stakeholders, such as the Department of Labour, South African Human Rights Commission, and Non-Governmental Organizations, came together to explore strategies for enhancing access to education, employment, and support systems for young people with disabilities.
The event served as a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity and empowerment for young individuals with disabilities in Buffalo City, setting the stage for meaningful change by fostering collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders.