The Disability Rights Unit (DRU) at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) recently hosted it is fourth Annual Disability Sports Day under the inspiring theme: “Different Ability Shared Strength”. The event took place at Fred Crookes Sport Centre, Steve Biko campus in Durban.
This annual Sports Day aimed to promote inclusivity while celebrating the athletic talents and abilities of students with disabilities. It formed part of DUT’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, equality, and inclusion across all campuses.
The event was directed by Mr Thabo Sikhakhane which provided a dynamic platform for students with disabilities to showcase their skills, participate in friendly competition, and engage with wider university community respect and encouragement.
Welcoming the attendees was the Director of Student Counselling and Health at DUT, Sister Sooriagandhi Wardthen. She celebrated the power of sports in promoting inclusion, wellbeing, and team spirit.
She also added that the day was designed to foster interaction between students with disabilities and the broader university community in a fun and supportive environment.
“Let us embrace the opportunity to connect, compete, and cheer each other on. Remember, it is not just about the games, but about building bridges, understanding each other, and recognising the unique strengths that everyone brings,’ she described.
Anele Ngubo, Diploma in Information Communication Technology: Business Analysis student based at DUT Indumiso Campus, Midlands, shared that this initiative was an eye-opening experience. “Today taught me that people with disabilities are just like everyone else they are capable, talented, and able to participate fully in any sport of their choice. My main takeaway was the spirit of togetherness and realizing that inclusion means providing equal opportunities for all,” Ngubo expressed.
Echoing similar sentiments, was Gumede Welile, a Tourism Management student from the Durban Campus, commended the initiative for encouraging awareness and understanding of the needs of persons with disabilities.
“My key take way today was seeing togetherness. The realisation that even people with disabilities can compete in any sport. This is a great initiative not just in bringing inclusivity but challenging narratives about people with disabilities,’ she explained.
Amongst the games which were facilitated by Mr Yandisa Mdolomba from DUT Sport Administration unit and his team the games included seated volleyball, chess, jenga, blind soccer, different board games, goal ball, visually impaired bowling and all students participated with and without disabilities.
The Disability Rights Unit collaborated with the Sports unit and the SWD Association for the success of this event.
Pictured: Students with disabilities during their annual Sports Day.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini.
Vukani Langa
