In a significant step towards understanding the challenges faced by children and persons with disabilities in Ethiopia, a stakeholder consultation workshop was organized by the Policy Studies Institute(PSI) and Inclusive Development Partners(IDP) on August 15,2024 at The Capital Hotel, Addis Ababa. The workshop aimed to gather valuable inputs from a diverse range of stakeholders to inform the design and implementation of a nationwide survey on the situation of persons with disabilities in the country.
The one-day consultative workshop, held at the Capital Hotel in Addis Ababa, brought together over 60 participants, including representatives from organizations supporting people with disabilities, professional associations, government ministries, NGOs, and researchers. The event provided a platform for the research team and IDP to present the objectives, themes, and methodology of the upcoming national survey, as well as to engage in in-depth discussions with the stakeholders.
During the workshop, participants had the opportunity to provide feedback and suggestions on the study tools, research approach, and the scope of the survey. The constructive dialogue and exchange of ideas were crucial in ensuring that the survey design is culturally sensitive and contextually relevant, addressing the diverse needs and perspectives of Ethiopia's communities.
"The active involvement of key stakeholders, including persons with disabilities and their representatives, is essential in shaping a comprehensive and effective national survey," said a representative from PSI. "Their insights and suggestions will help us refine the research approach and ensure that the study truly reflects the realities faced by children and persons with disabilities in Ethiopia."
The national survey is set to cover 9,200 households with members who have disabilities, comprising a total of 40,456 household members, or an average of four people per household. The workshop's objectives were to facilitate stakeholder engagement, ensure cultural sensitivity, refine the research approach, and build partnerships for a sustainable research initiative.
"This consultative workshop is a crucial step in laying the foundation for a collaborative and inclusive study," said a representative from IDP. "By integrating the perspectives of diverse stakeholders from the outset, we aim to create a survey that not only provides valuable insights but also fosters continued engagement and sustainability in addressing the needs of persons with disabilities in Ethiopia."
The insights and feedback gathered during the workshop will now be used to further refine the survey design, ensuring that the national study on persons with disabilities in Ethiopia is comprehensive, contextually relevant, and responsive to the unique challenges faced by this vulnerable population.