Maseru, Sept.11 — Special education teachers have collectively urged for the meaningful inclusion of children with disabilities in all spheres of life, emphasizing that inclusion must extend beyond the classroom and into communities and churches.
Speaking in a unified voice at the ongoing five day sensitization workshop on Teacher Inclusive Training Manual, the educators declared that the practice of hiding children with disabilities must become a thing of the past. They emphasized that, like every other individual, children with disabilities possess fundamental rights that must be recognized, protected and respected by all.
They said for too long, stigma and a lack of structural support have forced many families to keep children with disabilities out of the public eye.
The teachers stressed that hiding these children not only severely limits their developmental potential but also denies them their basic human dignity.
“By keeping them isolated, society reinforces the harmful misconception that disability is something to be ashamed of, rather than a natural part of human diversity”, they said.
While inclusive education within schools remains a vital goal, the teachers pointed out that true belonging cannot end at the school gates.
They called for a cultural shift where local neighbourhoods, recreational centres and faith-based organizations actively adapt to welcome children with disabilities.
They noted that churches and community hubs, should be at the forefront of this movement, ensuring their spaces, programs and attitudes are fully accessible and welcoming to all families.
The core of the teachers’ message centres on human rights. Children with disabilities have the right to play, worship, socialize and grow alongside their peers.
They added that treating these children with respect is not an act of charity, but a legal and moral obligation.
They urged parents, community leaders and policymakers to dismantle physical and social barriers, ensuring that every child can live openly, proudly, and fully integrated into society.
Meanwhile, workshop brought together special education teachers from Berea, Leribe, Maseru and Mafeteng districts.
The five day workshop which started on Monday and ends on Friday.
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