Eswatini’s Deputy Prime Minister recently hosted an event to recognize the remarkable achievements of two students with disabilities who excelled in the country’s EGCSE exams.
Khuzulwandle Gama, a visually impaired student from St. Joseph’s High School, earned an A* in Business Studies, while Phetsile Nyatabo from Timpisini High School secured 4 B’s and 3 C’s. The ceremony brought together key figures, including Minister of Education and Training Owen Nxumalo, representatives from FODSWA, UNESCO, the National Disability Advisory Council, and headteachers from both schools.
Portia Shabangu, the headteacher at Timpisini High School, thanked the Deputy Prime Minister for recognizing Phetsile’s success, praising her resilience and the unwavering support from her parents. Andreas Thwala, headteacher at St. Joseph’s High School, expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Education for providing vital assistive devices, which helped Khuzulwandle excel in ICT and Biology, surpassing even able-bodied students.
Minister Nxumalo applauded the collaborative efforts and announced the distribution of 1,000 computers to encourage innovation at both schools. He also revealed plans to provide gadgets for students who had dropped out due to disability.
The Deputy Prime Minister congratulated the Ministry of Education, schools, and parents for their contributions, calling for greater government and parliamentary recognition of persons with disabilities. She also announced plans to refurbish a disability-friendly hostel at St. Joseph’s High School, with a budget of E6.6 million.
