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[File photo] Examination room in a clinic.
The Departments of Education and Social Development in the Eastern Cape have joined hands to assist an 18-year-old from Motherwell, who is unable to attend school, after her appendicitis surgery at Livingstone Hospital in Gqeberha.
She has been in and out of the hospital since her first surgery in November last year, and was supposed to be doing her matric this year, but her health keeps deteriorating.
The 18-year-old has been advised to stay at home for this year, and focus on getting better. In the meantime, Education MEC, Fundile Gade, has empowered the young scholar with electronic devices, bridging the digital divide and ensuring she stays connected to her education, despite her going back to school next year.
“Tactically because she’s was suppose to be doing 12 but Grade 12 has already been closed with registration by now in terms of the national standards. So we have taken the decision to persuade the family and her between now and September we must deal with her health conditions. But in the meantime, have a hybrid approach, provide her with learning material. We have let her now so she can be able to use the devices to study for Grade 11 and 12.”
Furthermore, Social Development MEC, Bukiwe Fanta, has provided a comprehensive package of assistance including a 12-month disability social grant to help alleviate the family’s financial burden.
“The major thing is the health of the child but as Social Development we played our part because temporarily she has a disability. So as SASSA, today we have given them an approval letter for the disability grant, we are promising healthwise we are going to take care of the expenses.”
Speaking to the SABC, the provincial Health Department indicated that an investigation has been launched about the surgery of the learner.
However, Human rights activist, Petros Majola has slammed Health for their absence, saying they should take responsibility for the negligence that led to the learner’s complications.
“I’m just worried that there is no one from the department of health because here we are cleaning up their mess. So I cannot say I’m happy. Fine, it’s okay they are here because the child actually invited the MEC for education and he responded positively, but the department of health must learn to work with people.”
The learner has expressed joy and appreciation for the visit and support from the Departments of Education and Social Development.
“I’m so happy that MEC of Education Gade heard my cry, I’m really happy, my heart is at peace and also I don’t have a problem doing my Grade 12 next year. I’ve been motivated and I feel a bit better.”
The departments have committed to assisting the learner with the hospital bill and providing counseling.
Reporting Ntombozuko Balintulo
