Zimeleni in eMbalenhle is concerned about the future of learners with special needs in special schools
“Why they are not allowed to rather go study at a government Tvet college for skills?” asked Mayisela.
The non-profit organisation of the people with special needs, Zimeleni Disabled Organisation (ZDO) in eMbalenhle is concerned about the future of learners with special needs who are attending special schools.
This organisation said learners with special needs are not treated equally to those in ordinary schools because their education ends when they leave school. This exit date is controlled by their age.
Doctor Mayisela, the organisation’s chairman, said even their age requirement before they can be accepted in those special schools, is questionable.
“Currently, we have an alarming number of learners who are sitting at home doing nothing after their exit from special schools because of their age. Some are being used to sell drugs.
“The age restriction in special schools is 18 years. After that, the learner is sent to their parents.
“Why they are not allowed to rather go study at a government Tvet college for skills?” asked Mayisela.
“We know their needs are special but they are still human beings.”
Mayisela said ZDO does not blame special schools.
“We blame the government who passes the laws that promote inequality,” said Mayisela.
He said they are in talks with different Setas to help these learners obtain skills for them to participate in the economy like any other citizen of this country.
Mayisela said parents fear for their disabled child’s safety, especially when they are left alone at home while the parents are at work.
“They fear that the child might be raped or killed, but many parents don’t have a choice. They do not have any place to leave their child where the child will be taken care of.
“ZDO decided to begin with programmes, such as sport, to create a future for young adults with special needs.”
Mayisela said people with special needs have many challenges because of the law.
“If we don’t stand up as organisations, our rights will be suppressed forever.
“We encourage our members not to always complain, but to stand up and do something for ourselves. That is why we came up with this initiative,” said Mayisela.
Mayisela said any parent whose child is out of special school because of age, take them to the Zimeleni Disable Organisation offices at the eMbalenhle Sasol Recreation Centre or they can contact Sphiwe Mnisi on 072 508 3554 or 071 4611 973.
