Staff Reporter
Government, through the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has taken significant steps to support learners with albinism through collecting disaggregated statistics to address the needs of learners with albinism within the education sector.
Speaking during an Interactive Dialogue with the Independent Expert on the Enjoyment of Human Rights by People with Albinism at the 55th High-Level Segment Human Rights Council in Geneva yesterday, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, Legal, and Parliamentary Affairs, Vimbai Nyemba, highlighted that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is taking significant steps to support learners with albinism.
“In the education sector, Government through the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, is actively involved in collecting disaggregated statistics. This meticulous data collection serves as a crucial foundation for implementing targeted and effective measures to address the specific needs of students with albinism within the education system.
By understanding and acknowledging the diverse challenges faced by these learners, the ministry aims to create an inclusive learning environment that ensures equal opportunities for academic success and personal development,”
Moreover, Nyemba emphasized, “Through a number of policies, including the National Disability Policy, in 2021, Zimbabwe has put in place legislative and administrative measures to protect persons with albinism in the social, economic, and cultural spheres of our society.”
Nyemba further noted that the recently gazetted Persons with Disability Bill, aims to ensure that individuals with albinism have access to essential healthcare services and support tailored to their needs.
“The legislation specifically provides that persons with albinism shall be entitled to the necessary support with regards to health, recognizing the urgency to address their unique challenges, including skin and vision care. This ensures comprehensive medical assistance, encompassing specialized treatments and accommodations tailored to the specific needs of individuals with albinism, thus fostering an inclusive healthcare environment,”
In response to the Independent Expert’s report, Nyemba reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s dedication to collaborating with international bodies to advance the rights and well-being of individuals with albinism.
“My delegation welcomes the Report of the Independent Expert and pledges my country’s full support to her mandate to promote the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism.”
Government’s efforts to protect persons with albinism reflect a broader commitment to promoting inclusivity and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens.
Meanwhile, the Constitution of Zimbabwe affords people with albinism full rights in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. These include the right to life, adequate standards of living and social protection, equality and non-discrimination.
