Orange Grove resident and active member of the Norwood community Mongi Maphipha has launched a book discussing learning disorders, disabilities and other challenges among children.
Maphipha grew up in the rural Eastern Cape and was saddened to see many children struggling through school, repeating grades and eventually dropping out for various reasons.
When he moved to Johannesburg, he saw the same trend and started to examine some of the difficulties that children faced.
His self-published book I’m dyslexic, not stupid is a compilation of short stories dealing with various learning disorders and other challenges facing school-going children aimed at parents and teachers.
Some of these challenges include anorexia, stammering, dyslexia, autism, self-cutting, albinism, slow learning and more. He also highlights the challenge of codeine addiction among some learners which inhibits their school performance.
“People aren’t aware of the dangers of dropping out of school and turning to crime. I want to educate educators who in turn can look out for learners and educate them about these challenges. It’s so important to create awareness,” said Maphipha.
He added that many teachers in Norwood and Orange Grove were unaware of the prevalence of codeine addition. Since cough-mixture containing this drug is readily available and not illegal, it has become a major challenge to police trying to bring an end to this scourge.
“The book seeks to show the causes, signs and preventative measures for many of these challenges and directs the reader to where they can find help.”
Maphipha said he was in discussions with the Department of Education about rolling out his book in local schools and creating a wider reach. He has already donated a number of books to underprivileged schools near him.
“I hope that kids can get help before things go too far. I don’t want to see so many children dropping out of school. Teachers and parents need to make adaptations to assist struggling learners and intervene.”
The book is available at various online stores or hard copies can be purchased directly from Maphipha at a cost of R180 each. To order, email refinedtalent2016@gmail.com
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