Update: Plans to expand infrastructure to accommodate autism learners announced by GDE

Following placement concerns raised by the NPO Keakgona-Kefentse and Butterfly Haven Remedial Day-care Centre on April 15 for autistic learners, the Gauteng Department of Education shared its plans to expand infrastructure at current schools accommodating learners with autism.

Also read: Edenvale resident calls out lack of facilities for autistic children

The autism awareness campaign held in Edenvale highlighted the struggles of parents with special needs children.
This includes finding school placements, skills development centres and educational facilities for autistic learners.

The Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said presently they have 26 learners waiting for placement.
He said they have seven autism-specific schools and 24 autism-specific units at current special schools in Gauteng.

“Additionally, the aim is also to assist those learners with autism who can cope in the mainstream to stay there with support. Our greatest challenge is the fast increase in the number of learners identified with autism.

“Every year there is a greater demand, thus requiring more infrastructure, more training of new teachers and more resources,” said Mabona.
Parents are advised to go to the nearest district office if the learner is not currently in a school.

“Take any information about your child’s health, development, and education with you. We have officials who are employed to assist such parents with how things will unfold.
“Parents with children, who are already in a school, should request assistance at their respective schools.

“According to the national and provincial policy on screening, identification, assessment and support, you will be advised on how the process will unfold. Trust your gut as a parent if you feel something is not ok with your child, and then seek support,” added Mabona.