Collaboration on Work Placement Solutions for Persons with Disabilities

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In a significant step towards expanding work placement opportunities for the disabled, UKZN Occupational Therapy lecturer, Mr Luther Monareng, and University of Pretoria (UP) lecturer, Mr July Masango - both occupational therapists and PhD candidates - led an engaging session at The OTLink’s online workshop: Linking Occupational Therapy Evidence with Practice to Transform Rehabilitation.

Addressing more than 50 occupational therapists from across South Africa, the duo discussed critical aspects of work placement, from understanding available options to exploring how occupational therapy can bridge the gap between abilities and meaningful employment.

Masango, who is a private practitioner and part-time lecturer at UP presented a spectrum of work placement options for persons with disabilities. His talk covered pathways including competitive open labour market employment, supported employment, sheltered employment, and protected employment. Emphasising that ‘everyone has a right to be meaningfully occupied - i.e. work,’ Masango underscored the importance of aligning client skills with job demands through careful intervention and reasonable accommodations. ‘Work brings a sense of purpose and meaning to our lives,’ he said, adding that effective placements are possible with tailored strategies that match individuals to the right roles.

Monareng provided insight into self-employment as an alternative work pathway in South Africa, sharing research from his previous publications and his PhD. Highlighting the landscape of microenterprises, he elaborated on the role of key stakeholders and the guiding legislative framework, both locally and internationally, that shapes these opportunities. ‘Self-employment offers a unique avenue for empowerment,’ Monareng noted, encouraging those in attendance to explore entrepreneurship as a viable option for clients with disabilities.

The interactive session saw enthusiastic engagement from participants, who expressed appreciation for the practical guidance on transforming work placements. Participants praised both speakers for their depth of knowledge and commitment to empowering individuals through meaningful occupational therapy interventions.

Masango and Monareng, who first connected while studying occupational therapy at Wits, have a long-standing friendship and professional collaboration, culminating in this impactful workshop.

Words: Nombuso Dlamini

Photographs: Supplied