The Day of the African Child, commemorated annually on June 16, stands as a powerful reminder that every child—regardless of ability, background, or circumstance—deserves equal opportunities to thrive. This year’s celebration at Eqinisweni High School on June 27, 2025, transformed the theme “Planning and Budgeting for Children’s Rights” into a living demonstration of what inclusive education truly means.
Breaking Barriers Through Inclusive Leadership
The event’s most profound message came through its student leadership. Two students co-directed the commemoration, including a visually impaired student who worked seamlessly alongside her peer. Their collaboration wasn’t just inspiring—it was revolutionary. It shattered preconceptions about disability and proved that when we create truly inclusive environments, every child can lead, contribute, and excel.
This partnership embodied the day’s core advocacy message: inclusivity isn’t charity—it’s about recognizing the inherent value and potential in every child.
Voices That Demand to Be Heard
The 194 students from Eqinisweni High School didn’t just attend; they led conversations about their own futures. Through powerful poetry and heartfelt presentations, they articulated a clear message: children with disabilities must be included in all aspects of life, not as afterthoughts, but as equal participants in society’s fabric.
Their voices challenged the 40 stakeholders present—including representatives from NATICC, SOS Children’s Village, Young Heroes, World Vision, and government departments—to move beyond policies toward genuine transformation.
The Reality of Inclusive Education
Mr. B. Makama from FODSWA delivered a crucial truth: “Children with disabilities often come from poor families, so as school fees increase, they must also be included.” His words highlighted the intersectionality of disability and poverty, demanding that our advocacy address both accessibility and affordability.
Head teacher Ms. Zanele Xaba reinforced this message, emphasizing that true inclusion requires more than good intentions—it demands accessible infrastructure, adapted learning materials, and transformed attitudes from every member of the education community.
A Collective Responsibility
The commemoration’s most powerful takeaway was its call for collective action. Inclusivity cannot be achieved through isolated efforts; it requires educators, parents, communities, and policymakers working together to dismantle barriers and create opportunities.
The distribution of 194 themed mugs served as more than a gesture—it symbolized that every child matters, every voice counts, and every future deserves investment.
The Path Forward
As we reflect on this celebration, the message is clear: inclusivity is not optional—it’s a fundamental right. The event at Eqinisweni High School proved that when we embrace every child’s potential, we don’t just transform individual lives; we strengthen our entire society.
The students’ leadership, their peers’ enthusiastic participation, and the stakeholders’ commitment demonstrate that change is possible. But it requires intentional planning, adequate resources, and the unwavering belief that every child—regardless of ability—has something valuable to contribute.
Moving forward, our advocacy must ensure that children with disabilities are not just included in conversations about their futures—they must lead them. Only through this genuine inclusivity can we honor the memory of those who fought for children’s rights and create a society where every African child can truly thrive.
Eqinisweni Primary School learnes rendering an African Dance.
