POLOKWANE – Disabled students at Capricorn TVET College, along with their peers from other provincial institutions, expressed concerns about their lack of inclusion at higher learning facilities.

During this year’s Disability, Health, and Wellness Dialogue held at the Polokwane Campus Hall last Wednesday, students presented their challenges to representatives from the Department of Higher Education and Training.

The event featured performances showcasing student talents, but also highlighted significant issues.

Student leader Kgaogelo Chokoe acknowledged some progress in the inclusion of disabled students, noting invitations to participate in sports and leadership roles.

However, many felt these improvements were insufficient.

Key concerns included inadequate facilities with wheelchair users reporting to take a bath with cold water due to burst pipes, a situation compounded by poor accommodation for their needs. Despite reports to residential staff, senior members claimed ignorance of the issue.

Another matter was that of accessibility issues: Paved areas between classrooms were not wheelchair-friendly, and students requested assistance for easier mobility.

Livhuwani Mutshwarini noted the unfair reliance on fellow students for assistance.

Final-year students struggled with writing due to unmet promises of laptops, which were supposed to aid them from the start of their studies, was another objection.

Dialogue facilitator Sharon Mboweni said the concerns would be escalated to both the department and college management for resolution.

Capricorn TVET College spokesperson Madire Mashabela said the institution remained committed to improving conditions and ensuring better accessibility and opportunities for disabled students.