Ekukhanyeni Special School recently held its Open Day which was held at the Imbali Education and Innovation Precinct (IEIP).
The Ekukhanyeni Special School is located in the township of Imbali: Pietermaritzburg near the Durban University of Technology (DUT), Indumiso Campus.
Among other skills programmes that the school offers are computer, woodwork, carpentry, leatherwork, arts and crafts, needlework, sewing, printing, agriculture, food production and hospitality to learners between the ages of 14 to 18 years.
The products showcased and sold by the students during the event were a testament to the hands-on skills acquired through the school’s skills programme.
The Ekukhanyeni Special School is one of the schools that is part of the IEIP and their skills programme which is aligned and promotes some of the skills that IEIP is advocating.
This event was aimed to shine a spotlight on the diverse skills and potential of learners, transcending their disabilities. Moreover, it served as a platform to promote their work to neighbouring schools for fundraising purposes.
Ekukhanyeni Special School Principal: Bheki Mr Madlala, opened the event with a poignant message emphasising the critical importance of early identification of special needs children. He urged parental support and stated that the community needs to support their children and educate others about opportunities for learners with special needs.
“The aim of this event is to build confidence, enhancing self-worth, and dispelling misconceptions about learners with special needs within the community. I am delighted to share the immense joy and pride we feel witnessing the diverse skills and incredible potential of our special learners at Ekukhanyeni Special School. Each day, they inspire us with their unique talents and unwavering determination,” expressed Mr Madlala.
Noxolo Ntombela, shared her personal journey and the transformative impact of the Open Day in breaking stereotypes about children with special needs. Ntombela credited her dedicated teachers for helping her discover her talent, emphasising that children with special needs should dream big, believe in themselves, and called for parental support.
“This unique journey has taught me that ability knows no bounds, and each of us possesses incredible strengths. In our community, we hope to celebrate diversity, support one another, and showcase our individual talents,” she said.
The event which was held in collaboration with Imbali Education and Innovation Precinct (IEIP) and local entities, served as a beacon of inspiration, fostering community understanding and support.
Ntombela emphasised the importance to continue to break down barriers, raise awareness, and build a world where everyone, regardless of ability, is embraced and empowered.
Photographer: Siyabonga Sibiya
Nomvelo Cebekhulu
