CHALLENGES OF WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES IN HIGHER EDUCATION: AN OVERVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

Women with disabilities become victim of multiple marginalizations despite all rights and schemes on an equal basis with others. Though achieving gender equality is the prime focus under the Millennium Development Goals, women and girls continued to be victims of discrimination in all walks of life may it be education, sports or employment. Adding to this, the women with disabilities witness double discrimination, social isolation and rejection both on account of their disability and gender. Article 26 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) also identifies the right of women with disabilities to comprehensive habilitation and rehabilitation services and programmes, particularly in the areas of health, employment, education and social services. Despite these acts, women with disabilities are unable to create a sustainable future due to lack of access to education and rehabilitation services. The current paper explores and critically analyses various reviews of literature to identify and understand the challenges faced by the women with disabilities with regard to education, employment and different areas of social life. The authors also recommend possible suggestions to help the underprivileged women with disabilities to overcome the challenges and march towards inclusive growth and HE. The rights of persons with disabilities Act, 2016, states that, “The appropriate Government and the local authorities shall take measures to ensure that the women and children with disabilities enjoy their rights equally with others”. In conclusion, the challenges can be overcome through barrier free and accessibility to education without any discrimination on the basis of gender and disability issues. In this view, this study will convey the right information, importance and relevance and need of education for disabled women and girls in the society.