Africa-Press – Botswana. Government’s establishment of Persons with Disability Act of 2024 shows a commitment to promote inclusion and participation of people with disabilities.
Ministry of Basic Education and Child Welfare permanent secretary, Ms Mmamiki Kamanakao highlighted this when officiating at the graduation ceremony of Motswedi Rehabilitation Centre class of 2023/2024 in Mochudi recently.
She said while the implementation of the policy was slow, key issues in the new legislation were being addressed such as advocacy and early identification of people with disabilities, in order for them to get the necessary services and assistance.
Ms Kamanakao said this and other initiatives would go a long way in creating a conducive environment and promoting active participation of people with disabilities in the participation of their economy and subsequently achieving most of the objectives of the Persons with Disability Act.
She said there were efforts to address the plight of these already compromised learners, and hailed Motswedi rehabilitation for being important partners in the journey. While she acknowledged the hardships that educators worked under owing to under resourced institutions and shortage of resources, she congratulated them for their hard work.
“I stand before you to ask you to bear with us. We may not be checking on you or not seem to be appreciating you. But we know that you are here every day taking care of the learners,” said Ms Kamanakao, pleading with public institutions to reserve slots for graduates with disabilities because of their special and peculiar needs.
“Make sure they are also considered for tenders because the path to breaking barriers is not always easy,” she said.
Motswedi Centre coordinator, Mr Kgosi Tlhowe explained that the centre provided comprehensive rehabilitation services, stimulation and vocational training for learners with special needs. Our vision is to ensure that learners get equal opportunities and realise their full potential, Mr Tlhowe said.
A learner, Ms Lorato Mengwe said the centre helped them build meaningful relationships and was a good place to study. She regretted that only a few of youth with disabilities were sustainably employed.
Disability Coordinating Office director, Ms Peggy Garebaitse encouraged learners not to give up because they were differently able and not disabled. She said with right support, they would reach their full potential and that they too were employable. MP for Kgatleng West, Dr Unity Dow commended graduates for their hard work. She encouraged graduates to utilise their skills, volunteer or start their own businesses.
The graduation ceremony was held under the theme: Breaking Barriers, Building Dreams. A total of 46 graduated from areas as cookery and housekeeping, horticulture, carpentry and joinery, dress making and tailoring. The centre has capacity for 90 learners and welcomes children from all parts of the country.
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