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SAHRC advocates for access to education for children with disabilities

18 January 2017

The report stated that our government is failing to guarantee the right to education for many children and young adults with disabilities.

Reacting to a recent report by Human Rights Watch, The SA Human Rights Commission is calling on the Basic Education Department to do more to ensure that children with disabilities have access to education.

The international NGO estimated that half a million children are affected.  

The report also highlighted that many disabled children face discrimination and barriers when trying to get into schools. The Commission's Gurshwell Brooks says the learners face challenges when enrolling into schools - particularly those that are  mainstream.  

"In terms of special needs - the number of special schools are inadequate. I think this is a hallmark of a developing country. Despite that, special provision does need to be made by the Department of Basic Education. Children living with disabilities need to leave to other provinces in order to obtain their secondary education," he said.

Source: East Coast Radio

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Understanding PAIA

The Human Rights Commission is the national institution established to support constitutional democracy. It is committed to promote respect for, observance of and protection of human rights for everyone without fear or favour.

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