SAPS donates Braille materials to visually impaired learners in Eastern Cape

Africa

MAKHANDA, South Africa (NPA) — The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape, in partnership with community stakeholders, has donated Braille educational materials to visually impaired learners at the Makhanda Library for the Blind.

The initiative, held on Monday, August 31, 2026, formed part of activities marking the conclusion of Women’s Month and was aimed at promoting inclusive education and improving access to educational resources for learners living with visual impairments.

The programme brought together the SAPS Women’s Network, Makhanda Women for Change, the Community Policing Forum, the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, Masango Career School, Fort Brown Ladies, educators and the South African Library for the Blind (SALB).

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Chief Executive Officer of the South African Library for the Blind, Dr Pateka Ntshuntshe-Matshaya, welcomed the initiative, stressing that every child has the right to quality education regardless of disability.

She encouraged the learners to believe in themselves and remain committed to pursuing their dreams.

Representing SAPS, the Provincial Commander for the Gender-Based Violence and Victim Empowerment Programme, Colonel Mahlelehlele, emphasised the importance of partnerships in protecting children.

She said the fight against child abuse required sustained cooperation between the police, schools, parents, communities and other stakeholders, while urging members of the public to report incidents of abuse and other crimes.

The Makhanda Zone Commander, Colonel Pika, officially handed over the Braille educational materials, describing the initiative as an investment in the future of young people.

He encouraged the learners to take their education seriously, develop relevant technological skills and make responsible choices, while staying away from drugs and alcohol.

The programme also featured awareness sessions led by officers of the FCS Unit.

Constable Gwentsana spoke to the learners about children’s rights and sexual abuse, while Warrant Officer Mathanzima addressed gender-based violence, sexual offences and human trafficking.

The learners were also cautioned against criminal activities and encouraged to make choices that would protect their future.

Public Relations Intern at the South African Library for the Blind, Ms Nosiphiwo Malanga, expressed appreciation to SAPS and other stakeholders for supporting the initiative.

Masango Career School educator, Ms Ngagani, also welcomed the donation and highlighted the importance of giving learners opportunities to acquire practical skills and become self-reliant.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms Maqubela, who urged parents and caregivers to speak out and report cases of abuse involving children.

SAPS Eastern Cape said the initiative reflected its commitment to strengthening partnerships and building safer and more inclusive communities where children, regardless of disability, have opportunities to learn, develop and reach their full potential.