Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla has handed over prevocational equipment valued at more than E430 000 to Matsetsa School for the Deaf High, following a donation from the Turkish Government.
The equipment was delivered through the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and includes sewing kits and machines, welding materials, upholstery tools and arts supplies.
Dr Nomsa Maseko said the materials would build pupils’ skills and allow the school to construct a mobile boutique to sell products at festivals and ball games. 
“This will make it possible for the pupils to even start their businesses after completing school. We would like to request the public to support us as we will be selling our products,” she said.
Dladla thanked the Turkish Government for its generosity, explaining that she had identified the gap during a visit to the school and had then sought funding to address it.
The school also received a dairy cow from the DPM’s Office, which produces enough milk to improve nutrition at the institution while giving pupils practical training in dairy farming.
The Deputy Prime Minister encouraged the school to keep track of its graduates and gave an assurance that, if funds allowed, start up kits would be provided to help them set up businesses. She again called on members of the public to support the school by buying its products.
“By investing in these learners, we are investing in their independence, dignity, and future contribution to the nation,” the DPM said.
Dladla also visited St Joseph’s School, where she monitored progress on the construction of the boys’ hostel and assessed proposed sites for the planned girls’ hostel.
