The Eastern Cape Department of Education continued its MEC Outreach Programme, delivering specialized services to learners facing barriers to learning. Support included dental care, psychological assessments, audiology, psychiatry, and physiological interventions, targeting disadvantaged schools across the inland region.
What Happened
The outreach programme, led by the Department’s Inclusive Education unit, aimed to bridge the gap for learners struggling with health and developmental challenges that affect their schooling.
Teams of professionals visited local schools to provide on-site services, ensuring learners received care without the burden of traveling long distances.
“This initiative ensures that no learner is left behind due to barriers beyond their control,” said one departmental representative during the programme.
For similar updates on government-led interventions, see our Education News section.
Official Response
The Department of Education emphasized that the outreach is part of a broader government mandate to strengthen inclusive education in rural and under-resourced areas.
Officials confirmed that the programme would continue across the OR Tambo district, reaching more learners in the coming weeks.
OR Tambo District Municipality also lent its support, with Executive Mayor Councillor G.N. Nelani expressing gratitude to government departments, traditional leaders, and ward councillors for their collaboration. This collaboration shows commitment to building a healthier, more educated, and united community.
For more stories on leadership responses, visit our Politics & Governance section.
Community Impact
Parents and educators welcomed the services, outlined the cost and distance barriers usually faced when seeking specialist care.
By bringing support directly to schools, the outreach not only addresses health needs but also improves learners’ chances of academic success. Many of these children would have gone untreated. The students were seen by professionals who truly understand their needs.
Read related coverage in our Community News section.
FAQ
Who qualifies for these services?
Learners identified by schools as facing barriers to learning, particularly from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Will the programme continue in other wards?
Yes, the Department has confirmed that more schools in OR Tambo Inland will be visited in the next phase.
For more details, follow official updates on the Eastern Cape Department of Education website.
