Kimberley: The Re Tlameleng Special Needs School in Kimberley is a testament of government's commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all people. This is according to President Cyril Ramaphosa, who delivered remarks at the school on Saturday morning ahead of the official Human Rights Day programme held at the AR Abass Stadium in Kimberley.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of working collaboratively to uphold the rights and dignity of every South African. He highlighted that Re Tlameleng Special Needs School, for 33 years, has been instrumental in providing quality education to visual and hearing-impaired learners. The President recalled former President Nelson Mandela's advocacy for children's protection, underscoring the societal importance of treating children with care.
The President conducted a guided tour of the school, which recently benefitted from government and private sector initiatives. These upgrades include improvements to the library and computer laboratory, as well as the installation of a multipurpose court. He expressed gratitude towards the partners who facilitated these enhancements and urged continued involvement to sustain the school's growth.
President Ramaphosa acknowledged the significant challenge South Africa faces in ensuring educational access for children with special needs. He cited Statistics South Africa, noting that a substantial number of children with special needs are not in formal education due to inadequate facilities and necessary support services. He stressed the importance of partnerships between government, private sector, and public institutions to address these gaps.
The President praised the Re Tlameleng Special Needs School as a beacon of hope, emphasizing its role as an example of successful collaboration between social partners. He concluded with optimism about the school's future, expressing confidence that it will continue to thrive with the support of educators, learners, and partners.
