Barriers to capacity development of Adult persons with disabilities in Mpumalanga

Abstract

Adult persons with disabilities face a myriad of barriers to capacity development, in South Africa and globally. The researcher sought to understand barriers which impinge on capacity development of persons with disabilities. The study employed a qualitative case study approach which entailed interviews with 14 Adult Persons with disabilities, through convenient sampling, two social workers and one senior Mpumalanga Association of Persons with Disabilities official through purposive sampling. Face-to-face interviews and document analysis were the data collection tools utilised to gain insights. Persons with disabilities face additional barriers to capacity development compared to their non-disabled counterparts, these barriers are lack of access to educational, training and skills development opportunities, societal attitudes and conceptualisation of disability, lack of access to information and funding and ineffective Protective workshops were cited as main barriers. Improving access to education, training, business support, involvement of persons with disabilities in key decision- making structures will address some of these barriers. Shifts in attitudes, appreciation of the social model and capability approach will ensure effective interventions in disability programmes.