TITLE:
Adaptability of Students with Mobility Impairments in Higher Learning Institutions in the Kilimanjaro Region of Tanzania
AUTHORS:
Tumaini Matandala, Stanslaus Francis
KEYWORDS:
Mobility Impairments, Higher Education, Accessibility, Tanzania, Student Adaptation, Disability Inclusion
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Social Sciences,
Vol.12 No.11,
November
28,
2024
ABSTRACT: Background: Students with mobility impairments (SWMIs) face significant challenges in higher learning institutions (HLIs) due to inaccessible infrastructure and insufficient institutional support. This study explores the challenges SWMIs encounter in HLIs in Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, and identifies coping strategies they use. Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional, exploratory design, involving semi-structured interviews with 15 students and 5 Deans from five HLIs in Kilimanjaro. Quantitative data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed. Results: The study revealed that 66.7% of participants were aged 20 - 30 years, with 80% being male. The main challenges reported were inaccessible buildings, lack of support, and academic difficulties. Strategies for adaptation included self-planning, peer support, and psychosocial adjustment. Conclusion: HLIs must improve infrastructure, raise awareness, and provide targeted support to SWMIs. Further research is needed on adapting HLIs for other forms of disability, such as visual and hearing impairments.