Blind student sees success at Wits
- Wits University
Matric special needs top achiever pursues legal studies to fight injustice in South Africa.
Kabelo Motaphi Kekana, a first-year law student at the University of the Witwatersrand, is demonstrating that disability is no barrier to success. As South Africa's top-performing matric student with special education needs last year, he reflects on his achievements: “At first, I didn’t expect it, but my friends and family believed in me. Their confidence and support helped me persevere. They stood by me throughout the year, and because they trusted me, I learned to trust myself too.”
Kekana is determined to prove that disability does not define one’s potential.
“I just want to show the world that disability is not a limitation to success. You can achieve anything you set your mind to, regardless of the challenges you face. I want to encourage others who have disabilities or face obstacles—your journey does not end because of these challenges. With the right support, anything is possible.”
His decision to study law stems from his passion for justice. “South Africa is a country with many injustices, and a lot of people struggle to access the justice they deserve. I want to be part of the solution, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to fairness and justice.”
Adjusting to University life can be daunting, but Kekana’s experience at Wits has been overwhelmingly positive. “At first, I thought that being disabled in such a prestigious university would be a challenge. I expected people to be arrogant, but I was wrong. The students and staff here have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. The transition has been smooth, thanks to the assistance provided by the Disability Rights Unit (DRU).”
The DRU plays a crucial role in special needs students’ academic journeys, offering essential resources such as assistive technology and accessibility support. “When I arrived, I wasn’t familiar with using a computer, but the DRU introduced me to adaptive technology. Now, I use assistive software that provides spoken feedback for everything on the screen, allowing me to work just as efficiently as any other student."
Kekana receives training from an assistive technology specialist at the DRU, to help him navigate these tools. “The software allows me to operate a computer independently, and the DRU ensures we have access to the latest assistive technologies. Their support has been invaluable.”
His aspirations extend beyond his academic journey. “I want to become a lawyer and advocate for equal opportunities for people with disabilities. My goal is to show the world that nothing is impossible. Currently, I am also a member of a non-profit organisation that supports individuals across South Africa. It is still in the early stages, but I am passionate about helping others.”
His advice to other students facing challenges is simple but powerful:
“Never let anything discourage you. Life is full of obstacles, but success requires determination and hard work. There is no path to success without challenges—you just have to face them head-on.”
Dr Leila Abdool Gafoor, Head of the Disability Rights Unit at Wits, emphasises the University’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for students with disabilities. “Our role is to ensure that students receive the support they need to function independently and thrive academically. We assess their needs based on medical documentation and provide necessary accommodations, such as assistive technology, accessible study spaces, and extended exam times.”
The University has made significant strides in enhancing accessibility. “We have specialised labs, assistive software, and concession processes that students can access online. Our focus is on fostering independence, ensuring that students graduate as self-sufficient individuals ready to enter the workforce.”
For students unsure about whether they qualify for special education needs support, Gafoor encourages them to reach out. “Many students struggle without knowing that help is available. We urge them to visit the Disability Rights Unit, ask questions, and access the resources they need to succeed.”