THE SUPPORT OF NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANISATIONS IN THE EDUCATION OF CHILDREN WITH DISABILITIES IN THE BUILSA NORTH DISTRICT OF GHANA

Abstract

This study explored the role NGOs’ play in educating children with disabilities in the Builsa North District of Ghana. A cross-sectional survey approach was applied in the study. The sample size was 150 respondents (75 male and 75 female) for the questionnaire. A mixed method approach involving questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were the main instruments used for data collection. The data was analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The questionnaire was answered by 150 respondents, 72 respondents answered the focus group questions while eight (8) respondents answered the key informant interview questions. The schools, parents/guardians of children with disabilities, foster homes and NGOs that support the education of children with disabilities were visited for the questionnaire administration. The study realized children with disabilities face discrimination and marginalization in accessing education in the district. Thus, some NGOs support the education of children with disabilities by recruiting and sending them to school as well as providing teaching and learning materials, feeding the disabled children, capacity building as well as caring and showing love for the disabled children. The challenges militating against children with disabilities in their bid to access education were: lack of special educational infrastructure; stigmatization by school mates, teachers and parents; and their inability to move from home to school and back. The study concludes that children with disabilities have the desire to be educated. The study recommends the provision of a disabled children school in the district. Government should formulate legislations against stigmatization and discrimination of disabled children.