CUT is living up to its Vision 2030, which states that it will be the leading African University of Technology to shape the future through innovation. “Shaping the future through innovation” speaks to CUT’s aspiration to be an active force for change, finding novel and innovative solutions to problems faced by the country and the continent.

Recently, the Disability Unit (DU), in collaboration with the Product Development Technology Station (PDTS)and Unit for Development (UD), donated seven assistive devices to students and members of the community living with disabilities. Members of the community received 3-in-1 wheelchairs, two CUT students received automatic wheelchairs, and one learner from Pholoho Special School received a custom-made cranial protector to protect his head against injuries.

The 3-in-1 sustainable wheelchair built and designed by the PDTS was initiated by Mr Schalk van der Merwe, who has been wheelchair-bound for 27 years. Mr Van der Merwe envisioned a sustainable, multifunctional, affordable, durable, and flexible wheelchair suitable for rough terrains and rural areas.

The PDTS, DU, and UD are making significant inroads for learners, students, and community members with impairments. The donations made by the unit are part of enabling an inclusive environment, wherein individuals who have received the assistive devices can gain a sense of self-reliance and self-worth.

Prof. Alfred Ngowi, acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal said, “we consider this undertaking to assist those living with disabilities to be able to participate meaningfully in their community activities, on an equal footing with other members of their communities”.  He added that the university supports the government in its call for full representation and participation of people with disability, and that any assistive device is a life-changing experience, as it opens doors of education for learners with disability.

“It is through collective agency that we create a harmonious environment for both CUT students and the community to enable participation within the institution to be part of their distinguished areas”, said Dr Ntsoaki Malebo, Senior Director: Innovation in Learning and Teaching.

CUT is committed to promoting diversity among students on campus and giving differently-abled students access to equitable educational opportunities. Through the provision of a variety of programs, the DU aims to establish a supportive atmosphere that encourages students with disabilities and the wider community to realise their full potential.

Captions

1: From left: Ms Joyce Visage, parent, Olebogeng Visage, 10-year-old leaner from Pholoho Special School and recipient of the custom-made cranial protector, and Cllr Matthew Rantso, Chairperson of Council.

2: The 3-in-1 automatic wheelchairs that were donated to CUT students and members of the community. The sustainable wheelchair was built and designed by the PDTS and initiated by Mr Schalk van der Merwe, who has been wheelchair-bound for 27 years. The team later collaborated with two universities in the United King­dom, Aston and Loughborough, to further im­prove the wheelchair design and man­ufacture it on the African continent.