Barriers to Disabled Students' Participation in University Sports

The inclusion of disabled students in university sports has been a topic of discussion for some time. While there are numerous initiatives aimed at increasing participation, there are still many barriers that prevent disabled students from taking part. In this study, Wondwosen Tefera Geberesilassie aimed to identify the key barriers that prevent disabled students from participating in university sports.
Geberesilassie conducted a survey of disabled students at a university in Ethiopia to gather information about their experiences with university sports. The survey included questions about the students' level of interest in sports, their experiences with sports at the university, and the barriers that prevented them from participating.
The study found that the most significant barriers to disabled students' participation in university sports were lack of accessibility, lack of awareness and understanding of disability sports, and lack of financial support. These barriers were particularly acute for students with physical disabilities, who often faced significant obstacles in accessing sports facilities and equipment.
Geberesilassie recommended that universities take a more proactive approach to addressing these barriers. This might include investing in accessible sports facilities and equipment, providing disability sport education and training for staff and students, and offering financial support to disabled students who wish to participate in sports. By taking these steps, universities can help to ensure that disabled students have equal opportunities to participate in sports and to experience the many benefits that sports can offer.