05 September 2024
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Kelebogile Boleu is a lecturer in the Department of Criminology, University of the Free State, and a parent of a child with hearing impairment.
Although inclusive education is recognised as best practice in South Africa, it presents significant financial challenges. For families without the necessary resources, this often means sending their children to distant schools, which can negatively affect the child’s sense of belonging and integration within the family.
Limited options for Deaf education in the Free State
With only two schools in the Free State available for Deaf children that offer Sign Language as a first language and use it as the medium of instruction, families face the difficult choice of relocating or sending their children away. I am fortunate that my son can commute daily, but this presents its own challenges. His commute to and from school takes him close to 60 minutes each way, along a route that frequently experiences bus and minibus collisions.
The goal of schools for the Deaf is to provide a comprehensive academic curriculum. However, according to the Wits Centre for Deaf Studies, anecdotal feedback from teachers of the Deaf suggests that they are unable to fully complete the curriculum each year and this gap keeps growing.
Currently, most teachers in schools for the Deaf are hearing individuals who are not required to possess specialised training or qualifications in Deaf education or South African Sign Language (SASL) prior to their hiring. Their signing abilities are not assessed before or after their appointment, and there is no quality assurance measures in place for Deaf education in South Africa. Consequently, deaf learners suffer the effects.
Prof Claudine Storbeck highlights that the inadequate quality of Deaf education adversely affects post-school opportunities and employment. With SASL now recognised as an official language, it must be effectively integrated into the educational and post-school systems. I envision this integration allowing my son access to education in any town or city we might choose to relocate to, along with opportunities for various experiences he may wish to pursue.
Ongoing efforts to collaborate with education authorities
We have advocated for the establishment of more educational institutions within our province, aiming for our children to enjoy the same enriching educational experiences as their peers across South Africa. This includes the ability to return home daily, participate in sports activities with parental involvement, and benefit from consistent educational delivery that meets established educational objectives.
My primary concern is that the talented and capable children in Deaf schools risk being overlooked within the subpar educational experiences of available public schools, where management and teaching quality are not adequately monitored or evaluated to foster transformation and inclusion.
I have reached out to alternative schools to explore the possibility of establishing a Deaf class and have contacted the provincial Department of Basic Education’s inclusivity section to discuss potential collaboration among parents, the community, and the department to enhance educational quality. However, I am still awaiting a meeting to advance these discussions.
The importance of representation and inspiration
It’s important to ensure that Deaf children have equal access to social learning experiences and opportunities for success in various areas of life. Recently, while attending a popular art festival, my son may have struggled to fully participate in a science presentation without my attempt to interpret the presentation for him. This highlights the need for more inclusive practices and accommodations to enable deaf children to engage in activities alongside their hearing peers.
The limited number of schools for the Deaf in the country, particularly those providing quality education that supports appropriate literacy levels, is a concern that requires attention. Deaf children deserve access to educational environments that cater to their unique needs and help them reach their full potential.
However, there have been positive developments in the representation of the Deaf community, notably with Mia le Roux being crowned Miss South Africa on 12 August 2024. Mia has made history as the first Deaf woman to hold this title. Her journey to the crown is not only an inspiration but also a significant step toward raising awareness about deafness and advocating for inclusivity. Her victory serves as a reminder that Deaf children need to see role models who reflect their experiences and triumphs in a world not necessarily designed for them.
To further support the holistic development of Deaf children, it’s essential to encourage participation in sports and arts activities in Deaf schools. These experiences not only foster social interaction and self-expression but also contribute to a well-rounded education.
Creating inclusive environments, increasing the availability of quality Deaf education, and promoting diverse opportunities for Deaf children are important steps toward ensuring that they have access to the same experiences and avenues for success as their hearing peers. With advocates like Mia le Roux leading the way, there is hope for a more inclusive future where all children can thrive.
A vision for change
While the challenges facing Deaf education in South Africa are significant, there is hope for a brighter future. By raising awareness and advocating for more inclusive educational opportunities, we can create an environment where Deaf children thrive alongside their hearing peers. The commitment from parents, educators, and the community is essential in driving this change.
As we work together to establish more schools and improve the quality of education, we can ensure that every child, regardless of their hearing ability, has access to a fulfilling educational experience. With the official recognition of SASL, we are one step closer to a system that values and supports all learners. Together, let’s champion the rights of Deaf children, empowering them to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. The journey ahead may be challenging, but with collective determination, we can make a lasting impact and foster a more inclusive future for all.
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