THOHOYANDOU - “Being intellectually impaired does not mean that we do not have talent that we can use to develop our society.” That is the message from learners of Fulufhelo Special School in Thohoyandou, who are using their talents to raise funds for their school and to generate an extra income for themselves.

Although most of the community members look down upon the intellectually impaired, the school wants to let it be known that they are useful community members who have a lot to offer in the social, economic and political development of the country.

The school has 760 learners who use their talents in carpentry, welding, pottery, sewing, flowermaking and dressmaking to gen-erate income for the learners. Unlike other public schools, which operate according to grades, Fulufhelo operates in phases, which include Infant, Middle, Senior, Remedial and Workshop. With 22 staff members, the school has been the toast of the province because of the artworks by learners, which are re-ceiving massive market recognition from the community.

Mr Tshifhiwa Tshikosi (40), a teacher at the school, said it is important to develop the talents of the learners so that they may have something to depend on when they leave the school. “We cannot neglect them because they are intellectually impaired. We have a duty to groom them to use their skills for their future survival. They are presently making a significant contribution to the economic devel-opment of the country through their skills. We sell most of their artwork and buyers are impressed by the quality of the work.”

Tshikosi said that, although there is a shortage of machinery and material at the school, learners are doing their best to produce quality products under difficult conditions. “We need more machinery and material for carpentry, sewing, welding and dressmaking to manufacture more products easily, so that we may raise enough funds for the school. We will be filled with gratitude if community members can assist us financially to acquire the machines for the benefit of these kids.”

He further encouraged parents to bring their intellectually impaired kids to the school so that they may learn skills that will assist them in surviving, rather that depending on the government’s monthly disability grant.