Answer to Question #240630 in English for Thando

Question

Inclusive education movements and policies require that all educational settings shift
from exclusion to the inclusion of all learners in all school and class activities. The focus
must be on the promotion of social justice, ubuntu and equity. Based on this statement,
discuss the following policies that mandate the inclusion of learners with diverse learning
needs in all schools:
2.1. the Salamanca Statement (10)
2.2. the Education for All Declaration (10)
2.3. the Education White Paper 6: Building an Inclusive Education and Training System
(10)
2.4. the philosophy of ubuntu (10)

Answer 1

The World Summit for Social Development (Copenhagen 1995) defines an inclusive society as

a “society for all in which every individual, each with rights and responsibilities, has an active

role to play”. Such an inclusive society must be based on respect for all human rights and

fundamental freedoms, cultural and religious diversity, social justice10 and the special needs of

vulnerable and disadvantaged groups, democratic participation and the rule of law. It is

promoted by social policies that seek to reduce inequality and create flexible and tolerant

societies that embrace all people.

There are different views in terms of how a socially inclusive society functions. “Integration in

all its forms may simply imply the existence of a stable community in which people can find a

niche.” (Taylor, 2007:3). This simple expression touches the heart of the definition of social

integration and social inclusion, which is: difference among members of society is acceptable.

Social integration or social inclusion does not mean a uniformity of people but a society which

has room for diversity and still fosters engagement. To achieve social integration and social

inclusion, voices of people and their needs and concerns, need to be heard. Not only some but

all members of society with different backgrounds must have a say and a stake in their shared

society. This inclusiveness of society creates and maintains stability as well as a readiness to

embrace change when necessary.

In order to further our understanding of the concept of social integration and social inclusion, we

will begin by taking a closer look at what determines or represents an inclusive society, and why

it is important to build such a society. In very basic terms, “International human rights law

requires governments to respect individuals’ civil and political rights – such as their rights to

free speech, fair trial, and political participation – and to promote their economic, social and

cultural rights – such as their rights to health care and education.”11 In an inclusive society,

members not only have the right to education or the right to political participation but actually

take part in the process, using the right to education and having a vote that actually counts in a

political process. What is most significant in creating an inclusive society is the engagement of

the individual in the process by which society is managed, ordered and represented.