From university-to-work: an in-depth exploration into the transition journey of graduates with sensory disabilities in Ghana

Abstract

The importance of planned and supported transition processes for persons with impairments to move from one education institution to another, or from education to employment, cannot be overemphasised. In the Ghanaian context, while some attention has been given to the experiences of individuals with disabilities and their participation in universities, less attention has been paid to their transition journey to work. In this study, 27 persons with hearing and visual impairments were recruited to delve into their experiences. A semi-structured interview guide was developed and data were collected via face-to-face, virtual and telephone interviews, as well as focus group discussions. The results showed a lack of transition programmes for persons with sensory impairments who participated in the study. Also, participants were reluctant to disclose their impairments status when applying for employment. The study limitations, recommendations for future research and policy implications are discussed in detail. Points of interest Graduates with visual and hearing impairment have unique modes of communication. Effective transition from university to work will facilitate efforts towards promoting the acceptance and independence of graduates with hearing and visual impairments in society. While universities offer opportunities for the participation of all students, there seems to be a lack of transition programmes – from university to work – for graduates who participated in this study. Participants withheld information about their impairment when applying for jobs in order to ‘pass as normal‘ and avoid negative discrimination towards them. There is discussion of the need for participants to accept their physical impairments and to intensify their advocacy to preserve and promote the realisation of their right to work.