Annual event gives disabled learners platform to excel
“In May 2024, we hosted our first-ever training course to prepare teachers and schools for the Eisteddfod, ensuring that learners are adequately prepared for their performances," said De Jager.
The School of Achievement in Germiston hosted the fourth annual Perservaria Eisteddfod on July 15 and 16.
The Pretoria School for Cerebral Palsied Learners opened the event with a choir performance, followed by various performances in drama, vocal and instrumental music, and dance over the two days.
The Perservaria Eisteddfod provides a vibrant platform for showcasing talent across various artistic disciplines, including drama, visual art, creative writing, modelling, dance, vocal and instrumental, and small group performances.
ALSO READ: Jenny Wu Sports Academy embraces the spirit of Mandela Day everyday
This event offers opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to perform in front of an audience.
Historically, eisteddfods in South Africa have primarily catered to mainstream learners.
However, since 2021, the Perservaria Eisteddfod has stood out by providing special needs learners a chance to display their talents in front of an audience.
This initiative is one of the few that offers such opportunities to special needs learners.
The eisteddfod also welcomes national online participation through video submissions.
“In 2023, we received over a thousand entries, and we aimed to surpass that number in 2024, with submissions closing at the end of July.
“Our vision includes expanding to host in-person performances across all provinces in the future,” said the organiser Liani de Jager.
“Organised from Boksburg by De Jager and co-organiser Hesta Williams, both women share a deep passion for the arts and a particular dedication to special needs learners.
ALSO READ: Disability sports need more attention
They aim to provide an ideal Eisteddfod experience for LSEN (learners with special educational needs) participants.
“In the past, these learners faced the challenge of competing in mainstream Eisteddfods, often feeling overwhelmed by the high adjudication standards.
“In May 2024, we hosted our first training course to prepare teachers and schools for the Eisteddfod, ensuring that learners are adequately prepared for their performances,” said De Jager.
