This launch was an important step in raising awareness about disability rights, advocating for the inclusion of persons with disabilities, and promoting initiatives that address their needs and challenges in society. DRAM is observed to highlight the rights of disabled individuals, celebrate achievements, and engage the public in discussions about creating a more inclusive society.
“The theme for this year’s campaign, Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, highlights South Africa’s commitment to inclusivity and equality for persons with disabilities,” said Nompendulo Mkhatshwa, the ministry's spokesperson
The launch of DRAM was attended by several key dignitaries and partners who are influential in advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities. Among the attendees were:
- Mr. Baker Amoojee, Chairperson of JOCOD (Johannesburg Council for the Disabled)
- Ms. Linda Ponnusammy, (Director of JOCOD)
- Ms. Elizabeth Ramashala, (Head of Transformation at African Bank)
- Ms. Edna Sathekhe Montse, (Chief Transformation and Sustainability Officer)
- Mr. Godfrey (Ward 8 Councillor)
- Hon. Meagan Chauke (Member of Parliament and Whip of the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities)
- Adv. Mikateko Maluleke(Director General)
The individuals, alongside the Minister, played significant roles in emphasizing the importance of disability inclusion, social transformation, and advancing disability rights throughout the month and beyond. Their collaboration underscores the commitment to fostering a society where people with disabilities are empowered and supported.
Following her tour of the JOCOD facility, Minister Chikunga engaged deeply with the center's leadership and learners. She received a comprehensive briefing on the center's impactful work, which focuses on empowering persons with disabilities through skills development and inclusion initiatives.
Minister Chikunga expressed confidence that JOCOD’s model could serve as a catalyst for the establishment of similar centers across the country. She added that these centers could play a pivotal role in ensuring the skilling and empowerment of persons with disabilities, thus creating more opportunities for them to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.
“This approach aligns with the broader goals of Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), which emphasizes the importance of accessible education, training, and employment for individuals with disabilities,” the Minister said
The Minister’s endorsement highlights the importance of creating sustainable programs and institutions that equip persons with disabilities with the skills they need to thrive.
Sathekhe Montse from African Bank expressed her commitment to supporting future endeavors by the Department and JOCOD to further disability inclusion, ensuring that issues affecting persons with disabilities are championed on a national level.
JOCOD, was established in 1995, and provides essential services aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities.
Their programs include:
Social Work and Related Services: Providing individualized support and therapeutic interventions.
Further Education and Training: Offering ongoing education and skills training to empower beneficiaries.
Enterprise Development: Supporting income-generating activities like farming, sewing, and wheelchair repair.
Learnership Programmes and Skills Training: Preparing individuals for employability and entrepreneurship.
Sports and Recreation: Fostering physical and mental well-being through sports and inclusive activities.
Minister Chikunga emphasized the month-long commitment to raising awareness and building a disability-inclusive society. “Through dedicated programs like those at JOCOD, we can create a society where persons with disabilities are not only supported but celebrated for their contributions,” she said.
Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga has said the importance of keeping disability issues at the forefront of national policy is to solidify this. Ssjr will present am official ministerial statement in the National Assembly on December 3, 2024, during a debate that will allow Parliament to engage on key objectives and future directions for disability inclusion. This marks an important step in ensuring that disability-related matters are prioritized in the legislative agenda.
In addition to the launch of DRAM the Minister announced that DRAM activities will continue throughout November 2024. These events will be led by various stakeholders, including government departments, provincial governments, municipalities, state entities, and civil society organizations. The activities will align with this year’s theme, "Nothing About Us, Without Us," which underscores the importance of involving persons with disabilities in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
Minister Chikunga also professed hope that the private sector would come on board and contribute to these initiatives, ensuring that efforts to promote inclusion and accessibility extend beyond just one month. She articulated that these programs should become a year-round commitment, advocating for interventions that extend over the full 365 days of the year, ultimately creating long-lasting, systemic change for persons with disabilities.
This approach reflects the broader vision of building a fully inclusive society where persons with disabilities have equal opportunities and participation in all aspects of life.
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