​The City of Johannesburg launched the Jozi iSchool Africa lab inclusive education program aimed at supporting children with autism at Nokuthula Special School in Lyndhurst.

This was done in partnership with Autisim SA and iSchoolAfrica.

Image by RandburgSun

Speaking at the launch, MMC for Health and Social Development Dr Mpho Phalatse said the partnership is aimed at the most vulnerable in our education sector, will add value and enhance the tools needed to teach children that are autistic.

She said the Jozi lab will help to provide children with autism with the ability to connect with the world via the power of communication through technology.

”The City has taken a serious stance on Early Childhood Development programs as one of its Diphetogo projects, to ensure that children’s human rights of access to quality and inclusive education is realized. We are therefore delighted for being the active participants of this great initiative geared towards changing lives of children with Autism,” said MMC Mpho Phalatse.

iSchool Africa Managing Director, Michelle Lissoos, said their partnership with the City will go a long way in enhancing the education of children with special intellectual disabilities including autism at Nokuthula Special School. She said it was important to support such programs that will build an inclusive society.

“We have seen huge successes with use of iPads among children with autism. With the iPad, children with autism have even greater opportunities to improve their communication, motor and cognitive skills,” said Lissoos

The Department of Social Development (through MMC Phalatse’s office grant funding) was able to fund AutismSA to access a program to benefit 20 children with autism. A total of 20 iPads were handed over to Nokuthula Special School.