Investments In Technology Key For Improving Life Of Disabled: Deputy Minister

Deputy Minister for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities Mmapaseka Steve Letsike highlighted the need to invest in promoting new and assistive technologies to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities.

Speaking at the Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) symposium in Umgababa, near Durban, the deputy minister stressed the importance of affordable and accessible tools to aid communication, mobility and access to information.

She emphasized that collaboration between government, private businesses, academic institutions and disability organizations can drive innovation in the ICT sector, ensuring that people with disabilities benefit from rapid technological advancements.

"This includes promoting digital accessibility and ensuring that emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and automation, are designed with inclusivity in mind," the deputy minister said, SA News reported.

She added, "Our emphasis is on a fundamental shift in how we view persons with disabilities, away from the individual medical perspective, to a human rights and developmental perspective."

Letsike highlighted the importance of supporting autonomy and independent living for people with disabilities through policies that improve access to community services, personal assistance and affordable adaptable housing.

She pointed out that ICT plays a major role in advancing disability rights, providing tools that boost accessibility, inclusion, and independence for individuals with disabilities.

Letsike stated that ICT is more than just technology; it provides a pathway to a more inclusive and accessible world. She added that by promoting accessible technology, inclusive policies, and the rights of all individuals, society can continue to eliminate barriers and recognize each person's unique abilities.

The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of removing obstacles to education and employment for people with disabilities, allowing them to contribute to society in ways that support independence and empowerment.

The symposium occurred during Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), observed from Nov. 3 to Dec. 3, highlighting the government's commitment to building a society without barriers. It focuses on ensuring that people with disabilities can fully and actively participate in the economy and society.

This year's DRAM was held under the theme of "Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities."