Background of the Study
Economic empowerment is a cornerstone of sustainable development, particularly for marginalized groups such as disabled persons. In Minna Local Government Area, Niger State, disabled individuals often face significant barriers to economic participation due to inadequate education, social stigmatization, and limited access to employment opportunities. Adult education tailored to the needs of disabled persons has the potential to bridge this gap by providing specialized skills training, fostering independence, and enhancing self-esteem (Uche, 2023). Such educational initiatives are designed not only to improve functional literacy but also to equip disabled persons with vocational and entrepreneurial skills, thereby promoting their active participation in the economy (Adebayo, 2024). In recent years, policymakers have increasingly recognized the need to integrate disability-sensitive curricula into adult education programs. These programs address the unique challenges faced by disabled individuals, including mobility constraints and social isolation, by adopting inclusive teaching methodologies and accessible learning materials (Eze, 2025). Furthermore, adult education serves as a platform for disabled persons to develop networks, share experiences, and advocate for their rights, which in turn fosters a supportive community environment. The economic benefits of such programs extend beyond individual empowerment, as increased participation of disabled persons in the workforce can contribute to broader socio-economic development and reduce dependency ratios. In Minna, where infrastructural and societal challenges persist, targeted adult education initiatives have the potential to significantly alter the economic landscape for disabled persons. By providing them with the necessary tools to overcome employment barriers, these programs can enhance income-generating opportunities and promote self-reliance. The interplay between adult education and economic empowerment among disabled persons highlights the transformative potential of inclusive educational practices, underscoring the need for sustained governmental and non-governmental support (Okeke, 2023; Abiola, 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Disabled persons in Minna face numerous socio-economic challenges that hinder their economic participation. The lack of accessible and inclusive adult education programs tailored to their needs is a major contributor to low employment rates and economic dependency among this group (Ibekwe, 2023). Existing educational programs are often generic and fail to address the specific barriers that disabled individuals encounter, such as inadequate physical accessibility, limited adaptive technologies, and insufficient vocational training (Obi, 2024). As a result, many disabled persons remain excluded from the formal labor market, which exacerbates their marginalization and limits their capacity for economic independence. This gap in educational provision not only perpetuates poverty among disabled persons but also restricts their ability to contribute to overall community development. The challenges are further compounded by societal prejudices and a lack of awareness regarding the capabilities of disabled persons, which discourage investment in inclusive education. Without targeted interventions, the cycle of dependency and economic exclusion is likely to continue, undermining efforts towards broader social and economic integration. This study seeks to explore how adult education programs can be restructured and improved to better serve the disabled community in Minna, ultimately promoting their economic empowerment and social inclusion (Uche, 2023; Adebayo, 2024).
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the impact of disability-sensitive adult education programs on economic empowerment in Minna.
To identify the barriers that disabled persons face in accessing adult education.
To recommend strategies for enhancing adult education programs to promote economic independence among disabled persons.
Research Questions
How does participation in adult education affect the economic empowerment of disabled persons in Minna?
What are the main challenges faced by disabled persons in accessing inclusive adult education?
What strategies can be employed to improve adult education programs for the economic benefit of disabled persons?
Research Hypotheses
H₁: There is a significant positive relationship between participation in disability-sensitive adult education programs and the economic empowerment of disabled persons.
H₂: Inadequate accessibility and tailored content in adult education programs negatively impact economic empowerment among disabled persons.
H₃: Implementing targeted strategies in adult education programs will significantly enhance the economic independence of disabled persons in Minna.
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it highlights the role of inclusive adult education in transforming the economic prospects of disabled persons. The findings aim to inform policymakers and educational providers on effective strategies to foster economic empowerment and social inclusion in Minna (Uche, 2023; Eze, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to assessing the influence of adult education on the economic empowerment of disabled persons in Minna Local Government Area, Niger State. It focuses exclusively on adult education programs and does not extend to other empowerment initiatives.
Definitions of Terms
Adult Education: Educational programs aimed at adults that provide lifelong learning and vocational skills.
Economic Empowerment: The process by which individuals gain the ability to make economic decisions and improve their financial status.
Disabled Persons: Individuals with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental impairments that may limit full participation in society.
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