Along with observing Heritage and Literacy Month, South Africans are also observing Albinism Awareness Month during September, dedicated to promoting understanding, ending stigma, and protecting the rights of people with albinism.

The 2025 commemoration is observed under the theme: “Demanding Our Rights: Protect Our Skin, Preserve Our Lives”. The theme highlights the urgent need to safeguard the health, dignity, and human rights of persons with albinism. Albinism is a rare, genetically inherited condition present at birth that affects the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for the colour of the skin, hair, and eyes, often causing visual challenges and impairments.

The Inclusive Education Directorate is mandated to ensure the implementation of inclusive education in line with national policies, including Education White Paper 6 on Special Needs Education. The Directorate recognises the critical role that the disability sector and organisations play in representing the voices and the rights of learners with special education needs.

The month provides an opportunity to celebrate diversity by recognising the achievements, talents, and contributions of persons with albinism in our communities. During this month and beyond, South Africans are requested to stand together for inclusion, equality and the protection of persons with albinism and to raise awareness about the realities of living with albinism, whilst dispelling harmful myths and misconceptions to ensure zero stigmatization and for inclusion at all levels.