Swakopmund Constituency Councillor Louisa Kativa has submitted a proposal to the Erongo Regional Council for the construction of a special needs school at the coastal town.

Speaking at the handing over of 30 food parcels and five wheelchairs to people with disabilities on Wednesday here, Kativa said she submitted the proposal after realising that most children with special needs in Swakopmund are either kept at home and do not get an education, or are forced to attend the Eluwa Special School at Ongwediva in the Oshana Region.

“I feel like a number of people with special needs, especially the deaf community, are left out of many activities and programmes, which is disheartening. Education is key for everyone and we need a special school which will at least enable children to attend primary school and then perhaps complete school at Eluwa,” she said.

The councillor said people from the deaf community are capable of doing any type of job, but without the right education and qualifications they are often left out.

She further urged local businesses such as supermarkets and hardware stores to consider deaf people when recruiting employees as they also have to earn a living.

“Equally, as leaders, we should reach out to everyone irrespective of their status in the community and we will advocate for the need to support vulnerable members of society and anyone else needing the support.”

David Shipahu, a member of the deaf community and beneficiary, expressed his gratitude for the donation, saying that often, the deaf community is neglected.

“We are also very grateful to hear about the councillor’s plans to have a special school constructed here as we are really struggling with learning facilities and material and not all of us can afford to travel all the way to Eluwa,” Shipahu noted.

The food parcels were donated by the Swakopmund Rotary Club, while the wheelchairs were donated by the Office of the Prime Minister.

Source: The Namibian Press Agency