Challenges faced by children with disabilities in their quest for education, a case study of Tamandai ward 14 of Chipinge District
- Author
- Lincoln Mhlanga
- Title
- Challenges faced by children with disabilities in their quest for education, a case study of Tamandai ward 14 of Chipinge District
- Abstract
-
ABSTRACT
The challenges faced by children with disabilities in their quest for education study was precipitated by the increasing levels of poverty, economic downfall, poor infrastructural development, limited resources, discrimination and stigma. The study was guided by the following objectives; to assess the challenges faced by children with disabilities in their quest for education, to establish the community’s knowledge on inclusive education, to explore the community’s attitude towards educating children with disabilities. The study triangulated both qualitative and quantitative research designs, making use of a survey, in-depth interviews and key informant interviews as data collection methods. Simple random sampling technique was used to collect quantitative data while quota sampling technique and purposive sampling technique was used to collect qualitative data. The study found out that absolute poverty has brought unearthed myriad of complex issues that hinder children with disability from accessing quality learning. The study also revealed a lack of awareness and knowledge about the specific needs of children with disabilities in educational settings, indicating a critical gap in understanding within the community. The study again found out high prevalence of deeply ingrained stigmas and misconceptions surrounding disability within the community. The study then concludes that major barriers that hinder educational opportunities for children with disabilities are physical, social and systemic, from inaccessible school facilities, absence of specialized support services, social stigma, inadequate policies, resource allocation, discriminatory attitudes as well as misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding disability. The study recommends that there is a pressing need for comprehensive policy reforms that prioritize the integration of inclusive education practices within educational institutions. Educational institutions and stakeholders should focus on providing specialized training and professional development opportunities for educators to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to support diverse learning needs. Community engagement initiatives and awareness campaigns should be leveraged to challenge societal biases, promote empathy, and foster a culture of inclusivity that acknowledges the value of every child's education.
- Date
- JUNE 2024
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
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children with disabilities
quest for education
deeply ingrained stigmas and misconceptions surrounding disability within the community. - Supervisor
- NIL
- Item sets
- Department of Social Work
- Media
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Lincoln Mhlanga