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South African advocate calls for genuine inclusion action
Awareness is passive but inclusion requires systems
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By Peter Clark (Senior Editor, Autism Info Center) Thursday 28th May 2026 |
Kayise Ngqula, a board member of Autism South Africa, has highlighted the urgent need to move beyond simple awareness toward meaningful structural change.
In a discussion regarding the realities of raising an neurodivergent child, she argues that true inclusion is not a sentiment but a fundamental right that must be built into infrastructure and environments from the outset.
Many families in South Africa face a massive emotional and financial burden due to fragmented access to therapy and education.
The current system often requires parents to advocate constantly to bridge gaps in support that should be guaranteed by policy.
Inclusion should involve trained educators and predictable environments that reduce anxiety for neurodivergent people rather than retrofitting spaces after exclusion has already occurred.
The conversation emphasizes that while April focuses on visibility, the daily reality for families is shaped by the sustainability of care and the consistency of support systems.
By shifting attitudes and accepting that children do not need to be corrected but supported within their own framework, society can create a more intentional and attuned environment for all.
Source: Glamour (South Africa)
https://www.glamour.co.za/lifestyle/
Further reading, listening and viewing...
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