Capacitating Differently Abled Participants In Namaqua

In a powerful stride toward inclusive development, the Expanded Public Works Programme

(EPWP) under sub-directorate Innovation and Empowerment has emerged as more than just

a temporary relief tool. Its reinvigorated mission reaches deeper building dignity, skills and

sustainable entrepreneurship among historically marginalised groups.

A landmark achievement was recently reached as 25 differently abled participants

successfully completed the New Venture Creation (NVC) programme at NQF Level 2,

acquiring 20 credits towards an entrepreneurship qualification. This accomplishment marks a

major step in inclusive economic empowerment in the district. The New Venture Creation

Level 2 course equipped disabled learners with foundational entrepreneurial skills namely:

 Apply basic business ethics in a work environment

 Identify and demonstrate entrepreneurial ideas and opportunities

 Produce a business plan for a new venture

 Apply Health and Safety to a work area

Upon completion each participant was awarded with 20 credits. These credits can be used

as part of further credit accumulation toward completing the full NVC Level 2 qualification, or

in some cases to demonstrate skills/competence for employment or enterprise support

purposes. Empowerment and inclusion For people with disabilities in remote/rural districts

like Namakwa, having access to formal, recognised skills training often means better

opportunities, greater self-confidence, and the possibility of broader participation in the

economy.

The completion of this 20 credit segment of NVC Level 2 by 25 disabled participants in

Namakwa is more than just a certificate it is a stepping stone toward social inclusion,

economic agency, and personal dignity. While more remains to be done, the achievement

shows what can be realised when opportunity, support, and determination come together.

Following the successful implementation of the programme in other districts, the EPWP has

now set its sights on expanding the initiative to JTG and Pixley Ka Seme in the 3rd and 4th

quarter of the 2025/26 financial year.

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