Rehabilitation and Paid Employment for Blind People in a Low Income Country

Background: Rehabilitation of blind people is one of the components of Vision 2020. Despite advancement in technology and low vision rehabilitation, it is still difficult for blind people to gain paid employment especially in low income countries. This study was embarked upon to determine employment status of the rehabilitated blind in Ogun State and factors that enhance paid employment.

Methodology: A cross sectional study of sixty six blind adults was recruited from Nigerian Society of blind people Ogun State branch from May 2017-November 2017. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on personal data, academic qualifications, mode of rehabilitation, employment status, and Braille literacy. One hundred and one potential employers from six sectors of the economy were also recruited into the study to assess their willingness to employ blind persons and the qualifications required.

Result: The age range of respondents in this study was 17-68 years, mean 38.51±11.97 years. Forty two (63.66%) were males, 25(37.9%) had tertiary education, 35(53%) were Braille literate and 18(27.2%) had paid employment 16 of whom were by the Government. Education was significantly associated with paid employment (P=0.008). Amongst prospective employers 55(54.5%) would employ a blind person but did not know in what capacity.

Conclusion: The rate of paid employment for blind subjects is low. Tertiary education as a component of rehabilitation is important for blind people to get paid employment. Employers are ignorant of capabilities of blind subjects and forum of interactions between the two should be encouraged.