Views of Parents on the Education of Their Children with Disabilities in Two Selected Provinces of Zambia

Abstract

This was a study on the views of parents on the education of their children with disabilities. Parents are vital in the life of their children, they are in support of them even beyond their childhood. They know their children and monitor them closely in all areas of their lives such as academically and contribute greatly to its growth. In most cases these children are educated without listening to the views of their parents about their education. Their perspective cannot be overemphasized because it informs education planners on best practices of educating learners with disabilities which meets their academic needs. Thus the objective of this study was to establish the views of parents for children with disabilities concerning the education of their children and establish best ways of educating their children basing on their views. The study was qualitative and conducted in schools in the two provinces of Zambia that is central and Lusaka among parents of children with disabilities with the sample of 50 parents who were chosen purposefully from the following five (5)  schools  namely; CALEB  School/Centre and Nkwashi Primary School  and  Kapiri Day Secondary in Central Province.  St Lawrence and Nangongwe  Primary School  in Lusaka Province. Semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data that was analysed thematically. Ethical clearance was sort from the university ethics committee before the commencement of the study. The objectives of this study were achieved because firstly the views of parents for children with disabilities concerning the education of their children were established, secondly,  through this study  parents established  the best ways of educating their  children basing on their views and personal experiences.

Keywords: Parents, Views, Children, Disability, Education, School, Provinces, Ways

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/16-8-09

Publication date: July 31^st 2025