By Nokwanda Mamba

MZIPHOFU: Disabled school children are struggling in eSwatini, they are discriminated and neglected by the government.

Disabled children at Joseph Primary School were allegedly forced to stay at home while the school fixes the roof after it was damaged by the recent storms, however, able-bodied learners were allowed to continue with their education.

Speaking to this Swaziland News,  Bongani Makama, the President of the Federation of Organizations of the Disabled in Swaziland(FODSWA) confirmed the matter adding that the school had violated the Disability  Act of 2018 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).

“I called the Headteacher of the school and he failed to give me a clear response.  This is a crime and we condemn it with the strongest possible terms”,said the FODSWA President.

The Schools Headteacher, Wilfred Cindzi didn't respond to our questions. 

But Deputy Headteacher, Ncedile Dlamini referred questions back to the Headteacher and invited this Journalist to the school for a site tour. 

Lady Howard Mabuza,  the Minister of Education had not responded to our questions at  time of compiling this report. 

Mbongwa Dlamini, the President of the Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) condemned the act adding  that Government should have ensured that all schools were ready for reopening. 

“Disabled learners shouldn’t feel discriminated in any way.  This will also burden teachers who will have to teach those who are left behind", said the SNAT President.