Partnership to bridge educational gap for deaf students

Lesedi Mkhutshwa | Wednesday February 18, 2026 06:00

FCDE offers access to its sports facilities for staff wellness and recreational activities. Additionally, they are well-positioned to provide introductory sign language training for corporate employees.

In her address at the signing of the memorandum of understanding between the two parties, FCDE school head Changu Munyadzwe stated that their students follow the same national syllabus as their peers in mainstream schools.

However, she said that they continue to face significant academic challenges and do not always perform at the same level as their hearing counterparts.

Munyadzwe emphasised the need for stronger partnerships, sustained support, and innovative solutions to ensure equity in educational outcomes for deaf learners.

She expressed gratitude for the support received from Spar, particularly in providing meals for their students.

'Last year, when our students sat for their Primary School Leaving Examination, Spar stood by our side, ensuring that our learners wrote their examinations on a full stomach,' Munyadzwe said.

For this reason, she said that they are eager not only to continue but to strengthen their partnership with Tsetseng Retail Group Spar franchises, particularly as they look ahead to securing meals for students in the coming year.

Munyadzwe stated that FCDE is prepared to enrol six employees of Tsetseng Retail Group Spar in basic sign language training. This initiative will promote accessibility, enhance customer relations with deaf clients, and support alignment with the Botswana Disability Act, she added.

She said that through public-private cooperation, FCDE aims to strengthen sustainable education, uphold dignity, and expand opportunities for deaf learners whilst reinforcing corporate commitment to inclusion and social impact.

FCDE representative Pako Modise acknowledged the operational pressure the institution faces due to rising costs and growing learning needs.

He appreciated the support from Spar and other partners, stating that it has helped ensure the learners receive training tools, review materials, and positive feedback, enhancing their well-being and academic performance.

A representative from Spar, Kemiso Gotewang, stated that they visited the school in September 2024 to explore ways to support them as part of their Corporate Social Investment.

He said that they realised that the school's needs included electricity and water bills, accommodation, food, and toiletry issues.

'We made an announcement for a monthly sponsorship of P10,000 for a period of 12 months,' Gotewang said.