Growing up, I had a sense of empathy for people living with intellectual impairment in my community. My understanding was minimal, and I did not embrace their uniqueness. Visiting the Dagbreek School for the Intellectually Impaired changed my perspective, as it was here that I noticed how children living with Intellectual impairment are cared for in terms of education and support, in a loving manner. The enthusiasm, patience and dedication of the Dagbreek School team was evident in their interactions with the children.
Upon arrival we were welcomed by the principal, Mr Du Plessis and teachers and were shortly introduced to the learners along with the learners who were to receive the new school shoes generously donated by Wecke & Voigts. The Gondwana Care Trust team and I handed out the shoes and helped the learners fit them on their feet, which was a beautiful exchange of kindness.
As I am passionate about gardening, the following section of exploring the school was particularly my favourite. The Agriculture Teacher took us on a walkabout through the garden to showcase the various vegetables the learners planted and tended to. The teacher emphasised the role of sustainability in this aspect, as the produce from the garden is used in the kitchen to prepare meals for the children.
Furthermore, we explored the aquaponics systems in place at the school used for horticulture purposes. Equipping learners with gardening skills, helps to enable them to develop a sense of responsibility, encourage independence and attain knowledge that can lead to economic opportunities in future.
Author: Rosalia Martin
Photos: Gondwana Collection Namibia