SOCIO-ECONOMIC PROBLEMS OF PEOPLE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITY: A CASE OF GUBRE SUB-CITY.

Abstract

People with disability face socioeconomic problems compared to general population. Most of them have lower education, occupation and income. This study aims to assess the socio economic problems of people with disabilities face in Gubre sub city. Our research finding was fill the gap of those, the main focus of which was only on the attitudinal aspect of people with disability, economic aspect and academic performance of students with physical. Our research was assess overall socio-economic aspects of physical disabilities Both quantitative and qualitative research methods applied. The data collection instruments employed in this research were questionnaire, in-depth interview guide, and focus group discussion guide. Our research finding indicate that the economic problem of physically disabled people is not only related with their disability. But also, it related with their family background and lack of financial and material support, the attitude of community towards physically disabled people previously was not good. In somehow recently there is attitudinal change and also the educational level of physically disabled students was low. The socio-economic problems were negative perceptions of disabled people by non-disabled people, insufficient income for living and accommodation, problems of basic needs, and limited social network. Therefore, the local government should create links with NGOs for financial, material, other support for disabled people; Local government should improve the economic status of People with physical disabilities and engagement in different income generating activities; Local government should take the responsibility to allocate financial out flows.