Public servants with disabilities demand involvement and not inclusion

On the 28th of March 2025, the Provincial Government took a very long-awaited bold step and engaged with Public Servants living with disabilities as a pursuit of equality and a non-discriminatory working environment for ALL employees.

Led by Health MEC Ms Dieketseng Mashego on behalf of the Premier, the session served as a platform for servants gathered at the hall to unashamedly and honestly pour out their grievances.

Thus, various departments in the province took to the podium and exposed some of the challenges they face on a day-to-day basis in their respective offices. This includes unfair treatment, inaccessible infrastructure and inadequate resources. Collectively, they also emphasised the need for equal opportunities and recognition.

Echoing their cry, Chief Director for Transformation in the office, Mr Ike Thema firmly proclaimed that they do not need to be included, but involved in initiatives and not be treated like after-thoughts. They demand a seat at the table and a piece of the cake that every ordinary citizen takes a slice from.

A representative from the Department of Treasury did not hesitate to point out that government needs to take advantage of new age technologies as a tool to address difficulties confronted by employees who require special needs.

In response, MEC Mashego reassured them that the provincial government is committed to reinforcing reasonable accommodation within the public service so that all employees, regardless of their physical, visual, hearing, or intellectual disabilities are provided with the necessary support for them to perform at their full potential.

“Accessibility in the workplace must go beyond compliance, it must be a lived reality where persons with disabilities feel valued and empowered,” entailed the MEC. She also added: “Assistive technologies and adaptive workplace environments will be prioritised to ensure that everyone can contribute meaningfully towards the provision of services in the province.”

Another area of concern is the disregard of the Employment Equity Act that mandates representation of more persons living with disabilities in workplaces. It has been highlighted that too many qualified individuals with special needs struggle to secure employment because of bias prejudice and infrastructural challenges.

Therefore, they ask for a fair and impartial recruitment selection, and a chance to make a living for themselves. The key stimulator is creating awareness that will educate other employees about disability etiquette, rights and even language for them to engage with those who sign.

MEC Dieketseng Mashego encourages all public servants to co-create solutions that will shape the future of workplaces and communities. “Ability should not be measured by physical or sensory attributes, but by competence, commitment and character,” finished the MEC. PM