GDSD OPENS PATHWAYS TO EDUCATION AND INDEPENDENCE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

By Eric Malema

• The Gauteng Department of Social Development has partnered with Tshwane South TVET College and NSFAS to expand access to education for residents at Itireleng Residential Care Facility.
• ⁠Beneficiaries are enrolled in programmes such as Agriculture, Office Administration and a Pre-Vocational Learning Programme that prepares them for further studies.
• The initiative aims to promote independence, skills development and economic participation among persons with disabilities.

The Gauteng Department of Social Development, in partnership with Tshwane South TVET College and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), is empowering residents at Itireleng Residential Care Facility for the Disabled in Garankuwa through access to education and skills development opportunities.

Residents from the facility have been enrolled in various programmes, including Agriculture, Office Administration and the Pre-Vocational Learning Programme. The one-year bridging programme targets Grade 9 to 11 school leavers and equips them with foundational knowledge in English, Mathematics, Science, Technology and life skills, preparing them for further studies in fields such as engineering, business studies and other vocational qualifications.

Itireleng Residential Care Facility, a Gauteng Department of Social Development institution, provides specialised care and support for persons with disabilities. Admission to the facility is facilitated through referrals from social workers, healthcare professionals and family members. Prospective residents undergo assessments to determine their specific needs, whether physical, sensory or intellectual, ensuring that appropriate care and rehabilitation services are provided.

The facility offers accommodation, daily living assistance and rehabilitation programmes for individuals who are unable to live independently and whose families may not be able to provide the required level of care.

Among the beneficiaries is Kabelo Mokgetha from Siyabuswa in Mpumalanga, who is currently studying Office Administration at Tshwane South TVET College. Living with cerebral palsy and a physical disability, Mokgetha said the opportunity has given him renewed hope.
“I want to become a Receptionist, earn a salary, support my family and be independent,” he said.

Another student, Khuthutshelo Sadiki, who uses a wheelchair, has been a resident at Itireleng since last year. Originally from Garankuwa Zone 14, he was referred to the facility by a social worker after a traumatic home invasion and armed robbery left him living in fear.

Sadiki is currently enrolled in the Pre-Vocational Learning Programme and hopes to pursue a qualification in Information and Communication Technology.
“I want to have a better future, be able to survive on my own, support my mother who works as a security guard and become independent,” he said.
Lecturer Rhulani Elleck Nkwinika commended the students for their commitment and active participation.

“Khuthutshelo is an active participant in class discussions and is not afraid to ask questions when he needs clarity. Kabelo has also integrated well into the learning environment. His classmates and lecturers welcomed him from the first day, and he continues to receive support with his studies. He attends classes regularly and recently achieved an impressive 80% in his first test,” he said.

Head of Institution Faith Mhlanga emphasised the importance of skills development in empowering persons with disabilities.
“Skills development training enables persons with disabilities to become economically active, reduce dependency and improve their self-confidence and self-worth,” she said.

Through partnerships such as this, the Gauteng Department of Social Development continues to expand access to education and skills development, empowering persons with disabilities to build sustainable futures and achieve greater independence.