A Story About Grace: A Call for Inclusive Education

Grace is a bright young girl in Form 2A at our school in Chiredzi District. I’ve had the privilege of being her class teacher since last year. Grace uses a wheelchair due to her special needs, but her spirit is strong and her determination unwavering. Each day, she travels 7 kilometers from her homestead to school — a journey that would challenge any child, let alone one navigating rough, muddy terrain with a wheelchair.

During the rainy season, this journey becomes even more treacherous. The roads turn into rivers of mud, and her wheelchair sinks into the ground, making progress painfully slow and nearly impossible. Despite her resilience, the long distance and harsh conditions take a toll. Often, she arrives at school too exhausted to concentrate in class.

In the third term of last year, Grace made the heartbreaking decision to drop out of school. Many stakeholders — including teachers, community leaders, and her family — encouraged her to return, but she was firm in her decision. Her mother later came to school to share more about Grace’s struggles with me. Determined not to give up on her, I called Grace to speak with her, pleading with her to come back. Still, she refused.

So, I went to visit her at home. We sat together, and she opened up to me. “Ma’am,” she said, “I am dull. So why should I waste my time?”

Those words pierced my heart. I realized then that Grace didn’t just need motivation — she needed to rediscover her self-worth. I showed her her school report, pointing out her strengths and improvements. I began visiting her more often, bringing small treats like freezits and sweets, not just as gifts but as gestures of belief in her. Slowly, Grace began to find her courage again — and she agreed to return to school.

Grace is full of talent and dreams. She loves to dance and is passionate about sports. But her participation is limited — not because of her disability, but because of a lack of resources. Her wheelchair is not properly fitted; it’s too big, too heavy, and difficult to manage. In truth, she doesn’t ride it — she pushes it like a walker.

That’s why we are making an appeal.

We are calling on parents, community members, organizations, and well-wishers to help us provide Grace with a proper mobility aid — a walker or a lightweight, well-fitted wheelchair. Something that works for her body, her life, her journey. A tool that restores not just her mobility, but her dignity and independence.

No child should be left behind. Every learner deserves the chance to grow, to learn, and to dream — regardless of their circumstances. Together, we can create an inclusive education system where every child feels seen, supported, and empowered.

Let’s remove the barriers that hold our children back. Not just for Grace — but for every child with special needs.

Let’s build a future where all children have a fair chance to succeed.