THE CONUNDRUM OF DISABILITY AND AFRICAN SOLUTIONS IN EDUCATION

Abstract

Myths and misconceptions about disability are common in Southern Africa. Some people have peddled the false belief that persons with albinism make powerful charms which can make one rich or succeed in business (Thuku); that persons with disability cannot meet the performance standards required at work places or that disability is a health issue (International Labour Organization, 2015), and such other myths. Since these myths are not true in every respect, they tend to misrepresent the facts leading most people to misconstrue what disability is all about. These indecorous assumptions, triggered by fear, lack of understanding or prejudice often lead to maltreatment of others. Most of the time, these negative images create barriers to full membership for people with disabilities. This paper examines disability as a conundrum which confounds both the families in which it inheres and the wider society in which persons with disability have to navigate.