The Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, Michael Masutha, visited the Pioneer School for the Blind in Worcester yesterday, 8 April with blind astronomer Wanda Diaz.
Dr Diaz, from Puerto Rico, who lost her sight while studying physics at university, is in South Africa to work with the International Astronomical Union's Office of Astronomy for Development to develop tools and techniques that will help level the playing field for people of different abilities when it comes to doing science.
Dr Diaz said losing one's sight was a challenge. However, perseverance saw her obtaining her PhD. "I would like to see people with disabilities realise the power they have in their other senses, and this project shows the promise to do just that."
Dr Diaz is involved in radio astronomy, using telescopes that convert radio waves into sound. Her previous work has shown that it is possible to detect information from audio signals that may be missed using only visual techniques.
Deputy Minister Masutha, an advocate, who is visually impaired himself, said: "South Africa is in a position, through Dr Diaz's work and the enabling policies in place with regard to people with disabilities, to lead the world in this development area."
The Deputy Minister and Dr Diaz encouraged learners at the school to trust in themselves and their ability to succeed. Unlike Dr Diaz, who went blind as a young adult, Advocate Masutha was born partially sighted – but that did not stop him obtaining two law degrees.
For more information contact:
Veronica Mohapeloa
Cell: 082 882 3818
E-mail: Veronica.Mohapeloa@dst.gov.za
