PHWA

Physically Handicapped Welfare Association

Mauritius

Training and Earning activities

In 1980, the PHWA started the first daily training courses in Industrial sewing; lasting between 6 to 9 months. Successful trainees received Certificates on completion of the course, some obtained jobs in the industry and others worked in their homes.

The Training Centre, until July 1982, was a joint project between the PHWA, the Government of Mauritius and the ILO (International Labour Organisation).

The PHWA provided the building, machines, running costs, materials, equipment and Staff wages. The Government of Mauritius provided a monthly salary of Rs 50 to each trainee, a driver, petrol, an annual grant of Rs 15 000 and the services of a Senior Welfare Officer. The ILO provided machines, equipment, the services of an Overseas Advisor and payment of the Trainer and Supervisor.

After they received adequate training, the trainees did sewing work such as uniforms, aprons, trousers, shirts and dresses on order from local private firms and individuals against payment at piece work rate.

Handicapped girls who are unable to work on the machines, are making quilted cushions, table mats, and beautiful items in embroidery, macramé, quilting, craft work, floral arrangements etc. Members also recondition the earphones for Air Mauritius.

Their craft work is put on sale at our own Boutique situated in the PHWA Centre, with the Centre’s ultimate goal of helping them to earn extra money besides their Invalidity Pension, thus enabling them to have some degree of financial independence.

Sport and Leisure

The PHWA has in the past been represented in the International Paralympics organised every 4 years in different countries over the world. Sports activities such as basketball, wheelchair racing, javelin, petanque, shot-put and discus were practiced by the disabled members of the Association. They used to take part in local and international competitions when the opportunity occurred. Over the years they have achieved several great sporting results.

Gardening is one of their favourite hobbies. The boys, who cannot work inside, are trained for gardening. They grow vegetables and flowers, providing the Centre with some fresh produce and at the same time the yard is embellished and provides a warm recreational place for them to enjoy.

Outings to the seaside are regularly organised, they participate in indoor and outdoor games, attend movies and several other functions are organised on their behalf. The Centre also donates a gift to every member on their birthday.