SEDIBENG.- The continuation to celebrate the great achievements of the Class of 2024, must be extended to disabled matriculants who have successfully passed their Grade 12 exams.

Their often-overlooked perseverance, resilience, and determination are an inspiration.

Education remains a fundamental right, and for disabled South Africans, it is a key driver of empowerment, inclusivity, and socio-economic mobility. Despite the numerous challenges and barriers disabled learners face, many have shown remarkable courage and determination in pursuing their educational goals.

Education has the transformative power to break down social, economic, and cultural barriers. For disabled South Africans, education can enhance employability, promote inclusivity, and empower self-advocacy. While significant progress has been made in promoting inclusive education in South Africa, disabled learners still face numerous challenges, including inaccessible learning environments, limited resources, stigma, and stereotypes.

Despite the mentioned challenges, there are many opportunities for disabled South Africans to access quality education and achieve their goals. The government, civil society, and the private sector are working together to promote inclusive education, provide support services, and create opportunities for disabled learners.

To the Class of 2024, we urge you to continue pursuing your educational goals. Consider furthering your education at a university, college, or vocational training institution.

Many opportunities are available, including scholarships, bursaries, and support programs specifically designed for disabled students.

To educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, I call on you to continue working together to promote inclusive education, address the challenges faced by disabled learners, and create opportunities for them to succeed. Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, inclusivity, and socio-economic mobility.

Congratulations to the Class of 2024 and the continuous courage of disabled South Africans to continue pursuing their educational goals. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Lucky Tumahole is a ‘Disability Advocate’ and this is his opinion piece.