3 December 2016 marked the 24th anniversary of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Currently, around one billion people live with a disability, making up 15% of the world’s total population.
The Open Society Foundation (OSF) supports the implementation of Disability Rights education in selected law faculties in Africa. In pursuance of this vision, the Centre for Human Rights (CHR), Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria in collaboration with the Disability Unit, embarked upon a support visit to the University of Zambia (UNZA) in efforts to advance inclusive policies and practices.
Ms Thuto Hlalele from the CHR and Ms Maria Ramaahlo (Manager: Disability Unit - UP) met with key stakeholders involved in Disability Rights at UNZA.
The CHR, the Disability Unit and UNZA will improve upon current policies at the university that advance universal access to education for students with disabilities. This capacity building initiative support by OSISA, will focus on inclusive policies and practice at UNZA with the aim of improved educational opportunities and outcomes for persons with disabilities
The purpose of the support visit was to strengthen the disability rights curriculum and clinical legal education. Furthermore, to gain a comprehensive understanding of Disability Rights issues relating to the support of students of disabilities at the university. Discussions were held with both students with disabilities and staff members championing disability support at UNZA.