In a bold step toward inclusive service delivery, the Western Cape Department of Mobility, in partnership with the Breede Valley Municipality and the National Institute for the Deaf (NID), hosted a Computerised Learner’s Licence Testing (CLLT) demonstration for a Deaf learner in Worcester on 14 October, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The initiative formed part of Mobility Month, an annual campaign showcasing the province’s commitment to innovation, integrity and citizen-centred mobility. But this year’s demonstration went beyond technology, it represented what Minister Isaac Sileku described as ‘a commitment to equality.’
‘Today’s demonstration is about more than technology; it’s about equality,’ Sileku said. ‘The Western Cape Government prides itself on embracing technology that improves how we govern and serve. This system enhances fairness, transparency, and efficiency while restoring dignity to every applicant.’
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The new CLLT system replaces the traditional manual testing process with a digital platform that provides real-time results, enhanced accuracy, and most importantly, built-in accessibility features, according to the department.
These allow Deaf and hearing-impaired applicants to complete the test independently, without needing an interpreter.
That independence, officials say, restores fairness and dignity to the licensing process, a vital first step in improving access to employment and mobility for people with hearing loss.
Minister Sileku added that by removing opportunities for fraud and corruption, the system also ‘strengthens public trust and protects lives on our roads.’
Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Councillor Von Willingh of the Breede Valley Municipality called the demonstration a major step forward for improving road safety and accessibility.
He then emphasised that digital tools, like the CLLT, empower local traffic departments to deliver services that are both efficient and transparent.
‘It also sends a strong message that integrity and accountability must be at the heart of road safety from the very first step of the licensing process,’ he said.
For advocacy groups, the demonstration signalled real progress, as Lynnette Victor, Chief Sign Language Centre Officer at NID, praised the collaboration.
‘Through Deaf sensitisation and advocacy, we are helping to bridge the divide. I want to thank the Breede Valley Traffic Department and the Western Cape Mobility Department for starting this journey and embracing true collaboration.’
Echoing that sentiment, Mr Jabaar Mohammed, who is the Deaf Provincial Director of Deaf SA Western Cape, highlighted that the initiative could help unlock employment opportunities for many in the Deaf community.
‘In the past, Deaf people struggled to access employment because so many jobs required a valid driver’s licence. I am happy that we have started this partnership. It is an important first step in reducing barriers and creating equal opportunities,’ he added.
As the Western Cape continues rolling out its computerised testing system across its traffic centres, it aims to realise its vision of safe, fair, and accessible mobility for all.
By ensuring that every applicant, regardless of ability, has an equal chance to earn a driver’s licence, the province is aligning technology with human dignity.
As Minister Sileku puts it: ‘True mobility means giving everyone, regardless of ability or circumstance, the opportunity to move forward safely and confidently.’
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Picture: Supplied/ Western Cape Mobility Department
