Deaf student defies odds, pursues Social Work degr...

Deaf student defies odds, pursues Social Work degree in Zim

Emma Zihonye

In a remarkable display of determination and resilience, Dumisani Nkomo, a young hearing impaired man from Zimbabwe, is breaking barriers and pursuing a degree in Social Work despite the challenges faced by many with his condition in accessing education.

Education in Zimbabwe has long been criticised for its lack of accommodation for deaf individuals, resulting in a disproportionately high illiteracy among people with disabilities. Startling statistics reveal that approximately 90% of the illiterate population in Zimbabwe consists of individuals with disabilities, further exacerbating their marginalisation within society.

In an interview, Dumisani said there is need for the rolling out of Sign Language education so that people with hearing impairment can also have an equivalent access to education.

“They need to be wider spread for education to persons with disabilities so that they can also be successful in Zimbabwe, such as University of Zimbabwe now teaching Sign Language,” he said.

Dumisani Nkomo, driven by a passion for social work and a determination to challenge societal limitations, has embarked on an extraordinary journey of education. Despite the limitations imposed by a system that often fails to cater to the needs of deaf students, he remains undeterred in his pursuit of knowledge and personal growth.

“I advocate for persons with disabilities, it is important for me to be doing Social Work so that I can help my family and others,” Dumisani said.

Dumisani’s journey was fraught with challenges such as a lack of sign language interpreters, inaccessible learning materials, and communication barriers with his peers and teachers.

“I had to go to Emerald Hill School for the Deaf because other schools do not have Sign Language interpreters and then I later moved to Deaf Zimbabwe Trust and now I am studying Social Work at Women’s University in Africa,” he said.

Through the provision of Sign Language interpreters, adapted learning materials, and an inclusive learning environment, Dumisani has been able to actively participate in his studies and develop the necessary skills for his chosen field of Social Work.

As Dumisani Nkomo continues his remarkable educational journey, he serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. He embodies the spirit of perseverance and determination, showing that with the right support and accessibility, individuals with disabilities can achieve their dreams and make valuable contributions to their communities.

His inspiring journey sheds light on the need for increased inclusivity and support for people with disabilities in the Zimbabwean educational system.

The story of Dumisani Nkomo reminds us all of the importance of inclusive education and the need for societal change. It is a story that deserves recognition and serves as a catalyst for transforming the educational landscape in Zimbabwe, ensuring that no one is left behind.