Globally, more than one billion people live with disabilities, yet many continue to face systemic barriers to quality education, leadership opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making spaces. Advancing disability inclusion remains a critical priority for achieving equitable and sustainable development.

In commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), the Forum for African Women Educationalists in Zimbabwe (FAWEZI), with support from FAWE and the Mastercard Foundation under the FAWE/Mastercard Foundation Phase II Programme, convened an Inclusive Leadership and Empowerment Forum at Danhiko Industrial Training College.

Speaking at the event, Kundayi Kamutseta, Human Capital, Planning and Skills Development Officer in the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, described the International Day of Persons with Disabilities as “both a celebration and a reminder of the work still to be done.”

“Today we celebrate the leadership of persons with disabilities in education and skills development. Their resilience and innovation remind us that disability is not an inability. As a ministry, we remain committed to promoting disability inclusion through science, technology and education,” Kamutseta said.

She further noted that the Government of Zimbabwe is expanding opportunities for marginalised and indigenous communities, improving access to international education platforms, and strengthening local institutions to better support persons with disabilities.

The Forum brought together young women and men with disabilities in tertiary education, educators, and development partners, strengthening cross-sector collaboration and creating a platform to amplify the leadership and voices of young persons with disabilities. The commemorations, organised by FAWEZI, highlighted both progress made and persistent gaps in building an inclusive and equitable society.

Dr Deborah Tigere, Executive Director of Vision Ability Zimbabwe, commended FAWEZI for its sustained advocacy for inclusive education and leadership.

“For FAWEZI’s efforts, we celebrate every step taken to ensure that women and men with disabilities can learn, lead and thrive on their own terms,” Dr Tigere said.

She called for “stronger policies and deeper commitments that leave no learner behind,” emphasising that inclusion must become “a lived reality” rather than an aspiration.

Reaffirming the role of institutions in advancing inclusive skills development, Flora Jaure, Principal of Danhiko Industrial Training College, underscored the college’s commitment to supporting learners with disabilities.

“We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment that empowers every student with physical disabilities to thrive,” Jaure said, noting the institution’s focus on equipping students with technical and vocational skills aligned with national development goals.

FAWEZI reaffirms its commitment to advancing disability-inclusive education and leadership, and to working with government, civil society, and development partners to build a future where all individuals regardless of ability are supported to participate, innovate, and lead.