Tshilwavhusiku Razwimisani´s physically challenged children scooped up several gold medals at the Special Olympics Games that were recently held in the United States of America (USA).

The games started on January 29 and ended on February 16 at Boize Idaho in the USA, where about 37 countries, including South Africa, Germany, Australia and Switzerland, participated. It was in these Special Olympics where three learners from the two Vhembe special schools won gold medals in the floor hockey category. The gold medallists are Ndou Shavhani of the Unarine Day Care Centre of Ha-Mutsha in the Vuwani area and Funzani Ramabulana and Thomas Mphaphuli, both from Tshilwavhusiku Razwimisani Special School of Ravele village in the Sinthumule area.

The three were officially welcomed home at a well-attended ceremony that was held at Tshilwavhusiku Razwimisani Special School last Friday. According to the founder and principal of the school, Mrs Mufunwa Ramutshila, the success of her learners meant the beginning of good things for the schools. “This also tells us that we must never look down upon our children, because they have potential,” she said.

She acknowledged the positive support which the parents were offering the school. Besides taking part in sports, Tshilwavhusiku Razwimisani Special School also offers beading, weaving, brick-laying, carpentry and pottery to the physically challenged children at the school.

According to the acting manager of Soutpansberg West circuit, Ms Tsakani Mashige, the achievements of the three gold medallists tell her that there is dedication at their schools. “Their teachers are not just teachers, but also social workers at the same time. They are really doing an excellent job,” she said.

She added that parents must refrain from hiding children with disabilities. “Gone are those days when people used to chain their children at home because they have disabilities. Let them come and learn with others. The have potential like all other children,” she said.