By Charmaine Ndlela
The Department of Social Development marked International Children’s Day at the Dominican School for the Deaf in Hammanskraal, north of Pretoria, on Monday, placing a spotlight on the rights, dignity and inclusion of children with disabilities.
The commemoration forms part of Child Protection Week, observed from 29 May to 5 June under the theme of protecting and promoting children’s wellbeing.
Founded on 2 May 1962, the Dominican School for the Deaf is a public institution located on land owned by the Irish Dominican Sisters.
For more than six decades, it has provided specialised education, care and support to learners with hearing impairments, enabling academic and social development.
The school accommodates about 250 learners and operates as a residential institution, with separate hostel facilities for boys and girls. It is staffed by a principal, two deputy principals, eight heads of department and 41 educators, supported by 89 support staff.
Speaking at the event, principal of the Dominican School for the Deaf, Jones Seema, said the school remained committed to creating opportunities for learners with disabilities to thrive.
He welcomed initiatives promoting the rights, dignity and participation of children with disabilities, saying such engagements strengthened inclusion and raised awareness of learners’ needs and abilities.
The Department of Social Development said it chose the school deliberately to ensure children with disabilities were included in national conversations affecting them.
“We were intentional in our approach to commemorating International Children’s Day this year. Rather than hosting a large event in a central location, we chose to spend the day at Dominican School because we wanted to engage directly with children living with disabilities and ensure that they are seen, heard and included,” said Isabella Sekawana, chief director for children’s services and support.
“For me, this is what makes today special. It is an opportunity to bring the commemoration closer to children whose voices are often overlooked. This year’s focus on dignity reminds us that every child deserves respect, inclusion, equal opportunities and the chance to participate fully in society.”
The event included educational and recreational activities aimed at celebrating learners’ abilities while reinforcing the message of equal access to education, healthcare, protection and opportunity.
This year’s theme highlights the need to eliminate stigma, discrimination and exclusion faced by children with disabilities, and calls for inclusive environments that allow all children to participate fully.
International Children’s Day is observed annually on 1 June in many countries.
It originated as the International Day for Protection of Children, established in 1950 following a resolution by the Women’s International Democratic Federation congress in Moscow in 1949.
As Child Protection Week continues, the department urged communities, families and institutions to work together to ensure every child is protected, valued and given the opportunity to thrive.
INSIDE EDUCATION
