South African figures
However, according to Human Rights Watch (2015/16), there are approximately 450,000 children not in any formal schooling programme – and it is estimated that 250,000 of whom are blind or visually impaired. Failure by the Department of Basic Education to provide access to adequate schooling, in fact any schooling, for the countless disabled learners is a major threat to their livelihood and dignity. The system is failing these children, and Blind SA is on a mission to rectify this desperate situation.
The work that Blind SA does is remarkable – considering that for the most part, the NGO relies solely on the generosity of South Africans, both as individuals and corporates. A very small portion of its annual funding requirements comes from the government but, what little that does, is from the Department of Arts & Culture.
Raising an extra R1m will go a long way in assisting Blind SA to achieve its goals and give wings to words for thousands of blind people, young learners in particular, through enabling them to become braille-literate.
The funds will be used for:
Blind SA is appealing to South Africans to respond to their appeal for funds and donate generously via its website, www.blindsa.org.za.