AN oversight visit to the special schools in Montclair highlighted several key challenges that the KZN Department of Education has yet to address.

The challenge ranges from shortage of learner transport to inadequate number of therapists.

On January 30 the Premier of KwaZulu-Natal, Thamsanqa Ntuli, conducted a school functionality oversight programme at Ningizimu Special School and St Raphael School in Montclair.

The visit was part of the government and Legislature’s commitment to ensuring effective teaching and learning, particularly at the beginning of the academic year.

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Ningizimu Special School caters for learners between the ages of five and 18, including learners on the autism spectrum and those with profound intellectual and physical disabilities.

In addition to academic support, the school offers a range of professional and vocational skills programmes aimed at promoting independence and self-reliance among learners.

Some of the skills programmes offered at the school include :

• Hair and beauty therapy
• Sewing
• Upholstery
• Ancillary health care
• Food production
• Computer skills and other practical life skills.

Members of the KZN Legislature, senior government officials and the school governing body attended the oversight visit.

The programme seeks to assess school readiness, identify challenges, and strengthen support to ensure that schools function optimally in delivering quality education.

Ntuli acknowledged the challenges that arose during the visit and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with relevant departments.

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