Society tends to have low expectations of people with Down Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects the development of the brain. Such perceptions are unfair and uncalled for, according to the international advertising campaign titled “Assume that I can”, which challenges widely held stereotypes of Down Syndrome.

The North-West University (NWU) has added its weight to the global call for greater Down Syndrome awareness. On 21 March 2025, a day that celebrated human rights and World Down Syndrome Day, the NWU turned classrooms and community halls into spaces of learning, sharing and unlearning long-held misconceptions.

In partnership with the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement (SAASTA), the NWU’s Science Centre and the School of Nursing, hosted two public lectures, one in the Tsetse community and another on the Mahikeng Campus, under the theme "Celebrating diversity: We are all unique".

Nursing science lecturers and professional nurses Kgomotso Mathope and Modiegi Motlhokodi addressed the medical and social aspects of Down Syndrome for a diverse audience of community members, students and educators.

“Down Syndrome is not the result of anything a mother did or did not do during pregnancy,” said Kgomotso, at the Tsetse session. “It is a chromosomal condition, and early understanding helps reduce stigma.”

Modiegi explained the available diagnostic tools for expectant mothers and emphasised the importance of inclusive community practices. “Participation in activities such as sports is important. These individuals have abilities that can be developed and supported,”

Attendees raised questions ranging from educational inclusion to reproductive health and support systems for families. Some parents shared personal experiences of raising children with Down Syndrome, which, according to the organisers, added depth to the discussions.

Later in the evening, the lecture was repeated for NWU students and staff on the Mahikeng Campus. The session included a screening of the “Assume that I can” awareness video, prompting reflection and engagement from the audience.

“These conversations are necessary, especially on a day when we reflect on rights, dignity and the value of every individual,” said Kgomotso.

Nursing science lecturers and professional nurses Kgomotso Mathope and Modiegi Motlhokodi addressed the medical and social aspects of Down Syndrome on World Down Syndrome Day.