Abstract
This dissertation, submitted in an article format, investigates the role of Assistive Technologies (AT) in creating meaningful employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for unemployed tertiary level graduates with sensory disabilities in Gauteng, South Africa. The study addresses the critical issue of high unemployment rates among individuals with sensory disabilities, particularly visual and hearing impairments, who face significant barriers in accessing the job market. Despite advancements in AT, such as screen readers, text-to-speech (TTS) applications, speech-to-text (STT) applications, and hearing aids, their potential remains underutilised due to high costs, limited awareness, and inadequate institutional support.
The first article in this dissertation presents a comprehensive literature review, synthesising existing research on assistive technologies, their applications, and their impact on employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals with sensory disabilities. It establishes the theoretical framework grounded in the social model of disability (SMD), which emphasises the societal barriers that hinder the full participation of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. The literature review highlights the importance of addressing systemic barriers, promoting inclusive practices, and enhancing access to AT to empower individuals with sensory disabilities. The second article, corresponding to Chapter 4 of the dissertation, details the findings reveal that while AT can significantly enhance employability and entrepreneurial prospects, systemic barriers such as discrimination, inaccessible job platforms, and insufficient training hinder their effectiveness. Participants highlighted the transformative impact of AT in enabling independence and productivity, yet emphasised the need for industry-specific adaptations, employer awareness, and comprehensive training programs.
Key themes identified include the pervasive stigma and discrimination faced by graduates, the accessibility challenges in job-seeking platforms and workplaces, and the critical role of AT in fostering digital inclusion and entrepreneurship. Recommendations include increasing employer training, improving AT integration into workplace systems, and advocating for policy changes to promote inclusive hiring practices. This research contributes to the discourse on disability, employment, and technology by providing actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and employers. By addressing the barriers to AT utilisation and promoting inclusive practices, the study aims to empower individuals with sensory disabilities to achieve their full potential in the workforce and entrepreneurial ventures. The findings underscore the importance of a collaborative approach v involving government, educational institutions, and private organisations to create an inclusive...