The Mpumalanga Department of Education applauded the learners with special needs from the various special schools in the province who won in the provincial South African Learners with Special Educational Needs (LSEN) games held in Secunda, Govern Mbeki Local Municipality, on Friday July 29.

The winners will proceed to represent the province in the national LSEN games to be held at Hoërskool Rob Ferreira in White River from October 3 to 7.

The male and female intellectually impaired athletes represented their respective schools in the long and high jump, discus, javelin, 5 000m, 1 500m, 800m, 400m, 200m and 100m run and walk races.

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Through the adapted curriculum, the department is able to teach the learners with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities, who may also have multiple physical impairment, general subjects and practical skills, thus preparing them to become independent and responsible citizens in the future.
The MEC for education, Bonakele Majuba, said he is proud of the learners for winning the provincial LSEN games.

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The MEC for education, Bonakele Majuba, said he is proud of the learners for winning the provincial LSEN games.

“On behalf of the Mpumalanga Department of Education, let me take this opportunity to congratulate all the athletes for taking part in the LSEN games. Their efforts are more commendable, taking into account the fact that they require moderate to high levels of support in one way or the other as they are differently abled.

“We are indeed proud of these young athletes who against all odds strive to display their unmatched talent. We wish them well in the national games and we are hopeful that they will lift the Mpumalanga flag high,” he said.