Schools for learners with disabilities are commonly challenged by a lack of resources and infrastructure. The Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities (DWCPD) together with the MTN SA Foundation have formed a partnership to establish accessible computer laboratories and other specialised equipment that is responsive to the special needs of blind and partially sighted learners.
Bartimea was identified as one of the schools for the blind without a computer lab and braille machine. It was found that children who complete matric at this school only encounter such equipment at higher learning institutions.
"We are committed to the development of education initiatives and equal education opportunities for all. MTN SA Foundation identified the needs and challenges of Bartimea School for the Blind & Deaf through our partnership with the DWCPD. Working with such dedicated partners, the company realised that we needed to help the school provide learners with the quality tools they need in order to be equipped for tertiary education, and to assist them to develop their potential. By purchasing and donating the equipment they require, we hope the donation aids the school in becoming an effective and efficient centre for learning," said Kusile Mtunzi-Hairwadzi, GM of the MTN SA Foundation.
The ICT centre, coupled with its braille facility is a further avenue of support to challenged communities that MTN SA Foundation has identified as a dimension of its mission to embrace a 'bold new digital world'.
