23 January 2025 | Story Tshepo Tsotetsi | Photo Supplied
Albinism roundtable
Experts and advocates unite at the UFS’s roundtable to discuss access to healthcare and education for persons with albinism, fostering inclusivity and equal rights.

In its ongoing commitment to social justice and inclusive education, the University of the Free State (UFS) recently hosted a pivotal roundtable discussion to address the unique challenges faced by individuals with albinism. This initiative, focusing on improving access to healthcare and education, was a collaborative effort involving the Faculty of Law’s Disability Rights Unit, the Faculty of Health Sciences’ Department of Dermatology, and the Unit for Institutional Change and Social Justice.

The event brought together leading organisations advocating for the rights and dignity of people with albinism, including the Albinism Society of South Africa, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), the Africa Albinism Network, the Global Albinism Alliance, and the National Albinism Task Force. This engagement reflects UFS’s core value of social justice and its dedication to creating an equitable learning environment that ensures equal opportunities for all.

 

Championing rights through collaboration

Founded in 1992 by Mrs Nomasonto Mazibuko, the Albinism Society of South Africa has been instrumental in raising awareness about albinism and providing crucial support to individuals and families. The organisation’s mission is to boost the self-esteem of people with albinism, educate the public, and dispel harmful myths surrounding the condition. Key initiatives include advocating for securing access to essential healthcare services, such as optical aids and sunscreen, while promoting improved educational and social opportunities.

During the roundtable, the Albinism Society of South Africa shared insights into the triumphs and ongoing challenges faced by individuals with albinism in South Africa, 30 years after the advent of democracy.

The CGE discussed its efforts to protect the rights of persons with disabilities, focusing on those marginalised by intersecting factors such as gender and disability. Committed to promoting inclusivity and diversity, the CGE works to uphold the rights of marginalised groups, including people with albinism, who often experience compounded discrimination.

Similarly, the SAHRC highlighted its role in safeguarding the rights of persons with disabilities, including individuals with albinism. The Commission focuses on addressing systemic barriers that hinder access to essential services such as healthcare and education for marginalised populations.

The Africa Albinism Network presented on the health impacts of climate change on people with albinism in Africa, noting how environmental factors exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. This network advocates for better healthcare access and social support for people with albinism across the continent. 

The Global Albinism Alliance underscored its commitment to combating discrimination and ensuring legal protections for individuals with albinism worldwide. Their work is particularly critical in regions where persons with albinism face heightened violence and marginalisation. 

Finally, the National Albinism Task Force provided a comprehensive overview of the human rights landscape for individuals with albinism in South Africa, emphasising the need for legal reforms and societal recognition to address safety, access to services, and education. 

These organisations’ efforts to raise awareness, combat human rights violations, and drive systemic change align with UFS’s commitment to fostering a society where every individual can thrive, regardless of their background. 

 

A call for solutions and inclusivity

By bringing together such a diverse group of stakeholders, UFS successfully underscored the urgent need for greater inclusivity and accessibility for individuals living with albinism. The discussions went beyond identifying challenges, offering actionable solutions and strategies to improve access to healthcare and educational opportunities. 
This initiative exemplifies the UFS’s dedication to societal development and creating a more just and equitable community. Through partnerships with advocacy groups and its institutional efforts, the university continues to act as a catalyst for meaningful change, ensuring the voices of marginalised communities are heard and their needs addressed. 


We use cookies to make interactions with our websites and services easy and meaningful. To better understand how they are used, read more about the UFS cookie policy. By continuing to use this site you are giving us your consent to do this.

Accept