Thanks to the wonders of technology, a 16-year-old teenager who has never been able to communicate effectively, is now able to express himself freely.
Sibusiso Mbhele, a senior pupil at Felicitas School and a cerebral palsy sufferer, has finally discovered his voice, through a computer and special equipment and software.
The computer was acquired for Sibusiso after teaching staff noticed great potential in him.
“While the speech therapists don’t usually work with the senior learners, his teacher asked me to assist and I noticed something great from the beginning,” said Sima Parsot, a speech therapist at the school.
“He is very independent and determined.”
Parsot explained that cerebral palsy sufferers often experience problems with speech and have difficulty in pronouncing words.
While Sibusiso does talk, the words are unintelligible.
This has, however, all changed with his new computer.
A generous monetary donation from West Rand Plant Hire secured Sibusiso the latest, top of the range laptop, and two special switches with which to operate it.
Through these switches, which were imported from the United States, Subusiso controls the computer mouse.
Special software and a speech synthesiser allows the computer to speak.
With his best friend and fellow schoolmate, Brian Sibiye (16), looking on, Sibusiso provided a demonstration for the Herald.
Using his chin and elbow to operate the switches, he clicked on words and phrases and was able to introduce himself and exchange courtesies — albeit in an American accent.
“Most of the stuff, he has figured out on his own,” said Sima, adding the Sibusiso can even surf the net or send an email.
He showed the Herald how to take a computer “selfie”, something Sima claims he definitely learnt on his own.
“The whole system has benefited him immensely and he uses it throughout the day, not only for school,” said Sima.
A typical teenager, Sibusiso has even been pestering Sima to put movies and music on his computer.
His school days are filled with life skills, some academic work, music and media studies.
Sibusiso also enjoys playing soccer and shines at arts and crafts.
Sima is hopeful that the skills Sibusiso has acquired in learning how to operate the computer, will assist him once he has completed school.
