Inclusion isn’t just a principle, it’s a process. And at Western Cape APD, that process is being sharpened through the implementation of the Adult Inclusion Screening Tool (AIST) across branches with skills and work centres.

One of the first tasks taken on by Vari, now five months into her role as Programme Developer, was to conduct a thorough review of AIST’s effectiveness. Her findings are already helping shape how we prepare persons with disabilities for the open labour market.

AIST is more than a checklist. It’s a structured way to assess readiness for employment, helping branches identify strengths, gaps, and potential in each individual.

It’s about asking: What does this person need to thrive in a work environment, and how can we support that journey?

Evaluations have already taken place at Tygerberg, Witzenberg, Drakenstein, and Bergrivier APDs, with promising outcomes:

These stories reflect a deeper truth; inclusion is not passive. It requires tools, conversations, and commitment. AIST is helping us move from intention to impact, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not only seen, but supported in their journey toward employment.

With AIST now active in all relevant branches, we’re building a clearer picture of readiness, potential, and progress. And that means more targeted support, more success stories, and more lives changed.