Local Awareness and Satisfaction on Sustainable Projects for People with Disabilities

Abstract

Purpose: The research aimed to determine various sustainable projects offered by various institutions for people with disabilities (PWDs) in Oman; to analyze the local community’s awareness of those projects and their satisfaction with the provided facilities and services to PWDs and to assess the relationship between awareness and satisfaction with the services provided to PWDs. Design/methodology/approach: This study adopted a descriptive research design and a mixed approach. Primary data were obtained through a survey questionnaire and interview. Snowball sampling was employed with a total of 60 respondents from local communities, people living with disabled people, and institutions catering to the needs of people with disabilities. Findings: The findings showed that the majority of the population was highly aware of the education programs, access services, employment, and healthcare provided to people with disabilities. An overall high satisfaction rating was obtained for the provided facilities’ accessibility and services. Furthermore, results indicated no significant association between age groups and participants’ awareness and satisfaction towards facilities accessibility as well as services provided to PWDs. The outcomes likewise revealed a significant moderate, positive correlation between awareness and satisfaction with the services made available for PWDs. Research limitations/implications: The Government of Oman, non-governmental organizations, civil society, and PWDs immensely benefit from this study. This also outlines numerous sustainable initiatives and assessments on the quality of services according to their requirements. This study supports greater community inclusion and participation by PWDs, improving their overall quality of life. Social Implications: This study highlights the gaps and challenges faced in the implementation of projects that may require attention and improvement. This study also raises more awareness in the community about the difficulties experienced by PWDs and the significance of offering them long-term support. Originality / Value: This research study explored the local awareness and satisfaction with available sustainable projects for PWDs in Oman. This also outlines the identification of better strategies and approaches in the implementation of sustainable programs and policy development for people with disabilities among various institutions and the Government of Oman.