Deaf pupils in the spotlight
The mayor of Johannesburg, Clr Parks Tau, put his weight behind creating more awareness about deaf pupils and their challenges following Dtv's Zwakala Africa 2015.
Dtv’s Zwakala Africa 2015 was described as a resounding success.
February 27 saw the deaf finalists of 11 African countries taking part in the four different categories of this annual competition.
The Johannesburg mayor has since challenged Dtv to invite 20 countries next time and both him and Ambassador Beryl Sisulu agreed that in future, school pupils in Johannesburg should be transported in to learn more about deaf pupils who try and make the best of life despite their disability.
The finalists arrived in Johannesburg on February 23 and from February 24 to 26, rehearsals took place at the John Kani Theatre. In the evenings, games, cross-cultural exchanges and entertainment were scheduled, much to the delight of the 88 finalists.
The countries represented were Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Zwakala’s patron, Minister Lindiwe Sisulu, was represented by her sister, Ambassador Beryl Sisulu. A motivating wish from Deputy Minister Mabuda Fassie, from the Department of Arts and Culture, was screened at the event.
Category A, storytelling for ages five to 10, showcased a variety of entertaining stories.
First place went to Namibia, followed by Zimbabwe in second place and the Seychelles in third place.
Category B was a musical category for all ages and first place went to Malawi, followed by South Africa in second place and Lesotho in third place.
Category C showcased special talents of all ages. Zimbabwe took first place, followed by Malawi and South Africa in third place.
Category D was drama by a group of five. First place going to Zimbabwe, followed by the Seychelles and Mozambique in third place.
Each finalist received a goodie bag filled with generous contributions from various donors.
