BOPHELONG – Smiles, hope and promises of a better future filled the Amohelang Bophelong Disability Academy as Gauteng MEC for e-Government and IFP Gauteng Chairperson, Bonginkosi Dhlamini, rolled up his sleeves for Nelson Mandela Day.

The MEC led the Department of e-Government’s 67 Minutes community outreach programme at the academy in Bophelong, where more than 100 blankets and food parcels were donated to support people living with disabilities and elderly residents.

The academy is a community-driven project that empowers people with disabilities by equipping them with skills and exposing them to employment and development opportunities.

In a move aimed at bridging the digital divide, the department also installed uncapped WiFi at the facility, giving residents, caregivers and staff access to the internet and digital services.

Addressing community members, Dhlamini said the Government of Provincial Unity remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind.

He said technology should not only create economic opportunities but also improve the dignity, safety and quality of life of society’s most vulnerable people.

The MEC also announced that a specialised team would return to train people with disabilities in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), giving them valuable digital skills that could unlock future opportunities.

“We are here to give the centre CCTV cameras, to put in WiFi and to make sure that, as a department, we give them ICT training. We are very happy that it went well. We want to thank our partners,” said Dhlamini.

He further revealed that the department will return to install CCTV cameras at the academy to improve security and demonstrate the government’s commitment to building safer and more caring community facilities.