"Despite all the difficulties in the path of staff and students, the University of Venda (Univen) has something very special. We have skilled gentlemen and ladies who can compete and beat the rest of the world."

This was said by the acting vice-chancellor and principal of the University of Venda, Dr Jim Leatt, during the farewell function in honour of two disabled students who will participate in international and continental tournaments this month and in July. The function was held at the university’s council chambers on Monday afternoon.

A second-year BCom student, Tshilidzi Muanalo (23) of Nzhelele – Maelula, has been selected by Wheelchair Tennis South Africa to represent the country in Nice, France. Tshilidzi left the country on Wednesday and she will come back on the 17th. She impressed the selectors at a national tournament held in Bloemfontein in February this year.

Mpho Ramakonya (23) has also been selected to represent South Africa in goalball during the All Africa Games, scheduled to take place in Algeria from the 11th to the 23rd of July. Ramakonya hails from Mashau – Doli and he is doing his first year for a BA (Youth Development).

Leatt said it was a great challenge to people with disabilities to realize that there is potential in all human beings, despite different physical challenges. "The University of Venda would like to wish Tshilidzi and Mpho the best of luck in these two major events and we have no doubt that they will represent the university community, Limpopo Province and millions of South Africans very well. We need to thank all involved in ensuring the growth and development on campus, in particular of disabled sports, and we trust that Tshilidzi and Mpho will carry the University of Venda’s flag very high and make South Africa proud."

In response, the jubilant Tshilidzi said the pair will work hard to carry the hopes of the university, the province and the country. "We will definitely make it because disability is not a stumbling block to our ability."