MBOMBELA – The Department of Labour, in partnership with National Youth Development Agency (Nyda), Disabled People South Africa (DPSA) and Ehlanzeni District Municipality, held a training-session workshop for disabled people of various municipalities in the province.-
The theme was: “Uyoyi thola kanjan, uhleli ekhoneni” as it is said disabled people were afraid to venture out into their communities because they were frightened of being side-lined.-
“Disabled people of South Africa are on a mission of achieving the hiring of 2 per cent of the workforce from the disabled as promised by government. They are not well trained and still don’t meet this percentage because of a lack of information.-
“People living with disabilities are forced to depend on their disability grants which are not enough, but because they have no other means of income they end up going to bed on empty stomachs. We all know that the life of a disabled person is very expensive,” said Ms Thembi Sibeko.-
The workshop aimed to upskill them in the workings of all government offices. The government has opened doors for them. they also need to learn more about how to draft an attractive CV, self assessment, job hunting and excelling in interviews.
The first step was to acquire a matric certificate and obtain good marks.-
Executive mayor, Cllr Letta Shongwe said, “I’m so happy that the training was organised just when the nation is still celebrating the legacy of icon, Dr Nelson Mandela. He fought for freedom so that every South African citizen should be free to do anything they set their mind to.-
“We live in underdeveloped communities, but it is everybody’s duty to improve the living standards of our fellow disabled brothers and sisters. I urge every disabled person to apply in high places, opportunities are there and bursaries are there to assist, too,” she said.-
Ms Flerrie Mohlala of Nyda said: “Umsobovu Youth Fund and National Commission is under one umbrella called Nyda.
The purpose of the organisation is to help young people from the age of 18 to 35 with funds when they want to open business. We promote young entrepreneurs who have interesting and viable business plans.-
“I beg people to come and register their business plans at our nearest offices as it is free of charge,” she said.
