Building an Inclusive Future: Lovedale TVET College leads the way for students with disabilities

Every year, from 3 November to 3 December, South Africa celebrates Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), spotlighting issues related to disability. However, disability is not confined to a single month; it’s an ongoing reality for many of us. This year's theme, "Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities," reminds us that we all have a role to play in building an inclusive society. Fair treatment, access to education, and equal opportunities should be available to all, not just as a government responsibility, but a collective one.

Lovedale TVET College in the Eastern Cape stands out as a leader in the TVET sector for welcoming students with disabilities. A truly "disability-inclusive" society is possible only when higher education institutions support students with disabilities and help them become active, contributing citizens. Lovedale College has made great strides by not only providing access but offering the support students need to excel academically and enter the workforce.

The college’s recent nomination by the Department of Higher Education and Training to pilot a Disability Services Unit (DSU) confirms the success of its efforts. The college is committed to expanding its support for students with disabilities, and this year, it has added low vision to the list of accommodations. A student with low vision, who cannot read standard print, is now able to access electronic versions of books, allowing her to complete assignments and tests. While the college still lacks some necessary devices, the support from peers, staff, and the larger Lovedale community has made this achievement possible.

Lovedale TVET College is proud of its progress toward becoming fully disability-inclusive, with plans to admit students with more complex disabilities, including those who are completely blind. The motto “Nabo Ngabethu” — meaning “they are also ours” — reflects the college’s commitment to supporting students with disabilities as equals. At Lovedale, we believe that having a disability does not make a student less, and it is our responsibility to ensure they receive the support they need to thrive.

Godfrey Zihlwele is a visually impaired staff member at Lovedale TVET College. He is a facilitator based in the Partnerships and Linkages Unit.