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Choosing special education was not a coincidence for 22-year-old Katlego Manwela but a calling. From the very beginning of her journey at the University of Botswana (UB), she knew her path was to stand up for learners often overlooked and misunderstood.

Now in her final year, Katlego is specialising in Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), a field she believes is not just about teaching but restoring dignity and giving hope.

“Working with students with IDD drew my attention because I saw how often they were misunderstood or stigmatised in our communities,” she says with quiet conviction. “I wanted to support them meaningfully, both in academics and in achieving a better quality of life.”

Her studies have been more than theory. Through the EFS 440 practical module, Katlego took the classroom to the community by designing a pair of adaptive shoes, stylish yet comfortable, for learners with special needs. It was a project not only born out of empathy but innovation as well.

However, the journey has not been without challenges. During her school placements, Katlego sometimes faced limited resources and even resistance from others who failed to understand the needs of IDD learners. But instead of retreating, she adapted by creating her own materials, sharpening her advocacy skills and building bridges of understanding.

Her exposure at UB, from workshops to hands-on teaching and collaboration with peers and professionals, has not only built her confidence but also tested her patience, creativity and resilience. Tools such as communication boards, picture exchange systems (PECS) and educational games became her allies in making learning more accessible and fun.

Katlego is determined to go beyond the classroom. Her dream is to become a leading advocate for inclusive education in underserved communities. She envisions a future where learners with IDD are not hidden or sidelined but celebrated for their abilities.

She is already taking steps, fostering awareness among peers and teachers, promoting differentiated teaching methods and aiming for policy reforms that push inclusive practices to the forefront.

Her advice to others? “Stay passionate, patient and open-minded. Special education requires a heart for service and a willingness to keep learning. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, connect with mentors and always remember why you chose this path. Even changing one student’s life makes it worthwhile.”

Katlego’s story is not just about pursuing a degree. It is about breaking barriers with compassion, one learner at a time.