At the Southern Africa Students’ Union (SASU), we are committed to building an education system that is truly inclusive—one where every student, regardless of their background, gender, ability, identity, or nationality, has equal opportunity to learn, thrive, and lead. In a region where systemic inequalities still shape who gets access to education and who is left behind, we advocate for transformative policies that center the voices and needs of the most marginalized.
Our work focuses on breaking down the barriers that prevent students with disabilities, girls and young women, refugees, and others from fully participating in academic life. We push for national and institutional policies that address discrimination, expand access to inclusive learning materials, provide support services, and ensure that infrastructure—both physical and digital—is accessible to all. We also support gender-sensitive education policies that tackle sexual harassment, support menstrual health, and empower young women to stay in school and lead within their institutions.
SASU engages with governments, universities, and civil society to ensure that inclusivity is not treated as an add-on but as a core principle of education policy and practice. Through student-led advocacy, regional summits, and grassroots organizing, we amplify the call for education systems that reflect the diversity of Southern Africa—and respect the dignity of every learner. We believe that true educational progress can only happen when no one is left behind.
