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Today, the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Mr Mduduzi Manana, MP, shared opportunities for learners with disabilities that are available within the Post-School Education and Training (PSET) sector with learners at Thiboloha School for the Blind and Deaf.  

“At the moment, the proportion of disabled students is roughly estimated to be less than 1% of the total student population in the PSET sector – which is a far cry of the Department’s target. Though there is a special fund from the Department through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to assist these learners, the uptake is still low. This is the reason I am criss-crossing the country talking to learners like you, to motivate and encourage them to take advantage of the opportunities available. In addition to tuition and accommodation funds, there are extra funds allocated for assistive devices and assistive technology that assist learners to succeed academically”, said the Deputy Minister.

The purpose of the Department of Higher Education and Training’s Opportunities for Persons with Disabilities programme is to expose career opportunities within the PSET to learners with disabilities and further share funding opportunities. The Department’s intention is to mainstream issues of persons with disabilities in the PSET.

The Deputy Minister said, “last month I was in eDumbe, KwaZulu Natal where I visited three schools to launch the 2016 Apply Now/Khetha Career Guidance campaign which seeks to encourage current matric learners to apply early to institutions of higher education and training. I am bringing the same message to you, to apply now for consideration for 2017 academic year. Matric is not a ceiling for you, go out there and study further”.

The learners of the school were exposed to opportunities available within the Sector Education and Training Authority’s (SETAs), National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), Maluti TVET College, University of Free State – QwaQwa Campus, and many other opportunities available within PSET.

Mr Khooa, Principal at Thiboloha School for the Blind and Deaf welcomed the Deputy Minister’s visit. He promised to rally behind the teachers and learners to ensure all current matriculants do apply on time.

Issued by GCIS on behalf of the Department of Higher Education and Training