Enabling the disabled: SAEON and Murray & Roberts launch programme to train laboratory technicians

Lungisile Koliti (left) and Lulama Poni identify plankton in the laboratory (Picture © SAEON Elwandle Node)

Within the greater Grahamstown area an estimated 13 500 people are affected by disabilities. Their lives are further complicated by exceptionally high unemployment in the area.

SAEON, in conjunction with Murray & Roberts, has stepped forward in an effort to address this issue. The SAEON Elwandle Node in Grahamstown is training disabled people in basic laboratory skills in an internship programme sponsored by Murray & Roberts as part of its social involvement initiatives.

After rigorous interviews, three physically disabled persons, Lungisile Koliti, Lulama Poni and Colley Mpako were enlisted in a laboratory technician internship programme.

Working at the SAEON Elwandle Node where the focus is on the coastal environment, the interns are being trained in basic plankton identification, sediment analysis, field work, data entry and front-of-house activities.

Dr Angus Paterson, Manager of the SAEON Elwandle Node said, "The internship has gone better than ever expected. The interns are highly motivated and committed. Having people with disabilities in the work environment has been a growth experience for all the staff."

As far as practical implications were concerned, surprisingly few adjustments had to be made. These include suitable ramps, bathroom rails and specifically designed laboratory workstations and desks.

On a social level, SAEON has the benefit of having a small work force, providing an environment where teamwork and camaraderie can flourish.

The programme has been made possible by strong collaboration between the sponsors - Murray & Roberts Steel, the Association for Persons with Disabilities, and the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB).

The recent launch provided an opportunity for sponsors to interact with the interns and to see what they were up to in their working environment. It also provided an opportunity for the interns to thank the organisations involved.

What the interns have to say

After five months of working in the programme, the interns commented as follows:

"The programme is an eye opener…it has introduced me to people of all races with interesting academic backgrounds, and with a capacity to educate and share their expertise."

"…I never pictured myself working in a laboratory…"

"I can proudly say I am a lab assistant, and am looking forward to acquiring more skills from SAEON, such as receptionist skills, computer skills and swimming."

"Enterprises should give people with disabilities an opportunity to prove themselves… and become assets."

"People with disabilities always want to try and excel, and prove that a disability does not stop one from achieving what one wants in life."