Awareness and Utilization of Government’s Educational Schemes Amongst People with Locomotor Disabilities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37506/02j48h52Keywords:
Locomotor disability, Government educational schemes, Awareness, Utilization, Inclusive education, RehabilitationAbstract
Background:
Education plays an essential role in promoting independence, confidence, and social participation among people with locomotor disabilities. The Government of India has introduced several educational schemes to support this group and ensure equal learning opportunities. However, awareness and use of these schemes may differ based on individual, social, or environmental factors. Assessing how far these initiatives are known and used by people with locomotor disabilities is important for identifying practical gaps and improving inclusion in education.
Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among fifty-five people with locomotor disabilities aged 18 to 30 years. Participants were selected through purposive sampling from hospitals, outpatient departments, and non-governmental organizations. Data were collected using a validated self-structured questionnaire focusing on awareness, utilization, and perceived barriers related to government educational schemes. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.
Conclusion:
Among the participants, 29.09% were aware of government educational schemes, while 70.91% were unaware, and out of who were aware only 6.25% had ever utilized any scheme. Awareness was relatively higher among graduates and those with paraplegia or cerebral palsy. The main barriers included lack of clear information, difficulty understanding eligibility, and complicated application processes. Strengthening awareness activities, simplifying procedures, and involving rehabilitation professionals in guidance can improve access and participation, helping people with locomotor disabilities benefit fully from available educational opportunities
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