A new era for KZN students living with disabilities

The KwaZulu-Natal Regional Forum for the Advocacy and Resource Centre for Students with Disabilities (ARCSWiD), which took place on Tuesday, 10 December 2024 in Durban, was not just a meeting – it marked the beginning of a new era of leadership, empowerment, and advocacy that will change the way students living with disabilities are represented and supported across the region.

Participants at the Regional Forum Inauguration Programme

Inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword – it’s essential. For students living with disabilities, having the right support and representation can make all the difference in their academic journey. Too often, the challenges they face go unnoticed, and their voices are left unheard. That’s why the ARCSWiD KwaZulu-Natal Forum is so important. It provides a platform for students to not only raise their concerns but also to actively shape the policies and programmes that affect them. When students with disabilities are included in the conversation, it ensures that their needs are met in meaningful ways, whether it's through accessible learning tools, better resources, or more opportunities for involvement in all aspects of university life.

The regional forum inauguration programme kicked off at 9:00, with a warm welcome by Mr Soobramoney, setting the tone for a day filled with hope and anticipation. Students gathered to elect a new committee of leaders, each committed to making a real difference for students with disabilities.

With guidance from passionate advocates like Gugu Mngadi and Nwabisa Veli, delegates voted for the individuals they believed would best represent their interests. Candidates for the nine key positions –ranging from Chairperson to Media Officer – had the chance to present their vision for a more inclusive and supportive environment. The candidates shared their goals for a future where all students, regardless of their abilities, will be able to thrive in their education and beyond.

By the end of the day, a new leadership team had been sworn in. This dynamic group is now tasked with advocating for students with disabilities, promoting their rights, and ensuring their voices are heard at every level. Here’s a look at the elected leaders:

• Chairperson – Brian Sibiya
• Deputy Chairperson – Bianca Naicker
• Secretary – Nontokomalo Bhengu
• Finance Officer – Roy Moonsamy Naidoo
• Media Officer – Sandile Xulu
• Education and Training Officer – Hloniphile Rebecca Xulu
• Advocacy Officer – Mthokozisi Dlamini
• Sports and Culture Officer – Siphiwe Masinga
• Gender Officer – Minenhle Xaba

Each of these leaders took an oath to uphold the values of ARCSWiD and work toward creating a space where all students with disabilities are valued, respected, and supported.

The inauguration wasn’t just about electing new leaders – it was about creating a vision for the future. With the 2025 forum conference and training programme on the horizon, there’s a clear path ahead to continue pushing for positive change. As these newly elected leaders take on their roles, they are not only shaping the future of ARCSWiD but also empowering a whole new generation of students to become advocates for inclusion and equality.

This event has proven that when students living with disabilities have a voice, they can create lasting change. And the Regional Forum is just the beginning. Let’s all look forward to the incredible progress that’s sure to follow.

* By Jo Cossavella, Communications Officer, Unisa KwaZulu-Natal Region, with input from ChatGPT