The University of Fort Hare (UFH) recently partnered with the Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality and other key stakeholders such as the South African Human Rights Commission, to host a transformative Youth Disability Inclusion Programme.
This collaborative effort marks a significant step toward mainstreaming disability inclusion across all spheres of society.
The programme, held on 16 May, consisted of two sessions. Firstly, a town hall-style discussion hosted at the University’s East London campus. Representing UFH where staff from Disability Unit, the Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Gender Diversity Office, and the SARChI Chair in Sexualities, Gender & Queer Studies.
The second session featured a site visit to the Khayalethu Protective Workwear Centre, which supports individuals living with autism and intellectual disabilities.
Driving Change, Together
Interim SARChI Chair in Sexualities, Genders & Queer Studies, Dr Bellita Banda Chitsamatanga, delivered an impassioned address, emphasizing the importance of the university’s role and such collaborations in driving change.
“I’m excited to see you all here today to learn, unlearn, and relearn what mainstreaming youth with disabilities means. This is an excellent opportunity to delve deeper into important discussions on youth living with disabilities and the protection and promotion of their human rights in institutions of higher learning and beyond.”
As part of its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all on its campus, the University of Fort Hare recently acquired two new disability-friendly Mercedes-Benz buses. The buses are designed to accommodate students with disabilities, featuring hydraulic wheelchair lifts, five wheelchair stations, and 40 seats.
The acquisition of the buses aligns with UFH’s institutional goal: to improve student life and enhance student experience.
The University has also been relentlessly driving initiatives that seek to make campus a safe space for all.
“We look forward to more collaborations that are aimed at creating an inclusive environment that values diversity, inclusion, visibility, and equitable opportunities for all. Using this approach helps to break down prejudices and stigmas around disability. It also fosters acceptance and understanding among the broader community while empowering every individual to reach their full potential,” said Dr Bellita.