A Comparative Study of the Occupational Aspirations of the Physically Handicapped Secondary School Students and the Actual Job Placement of these Graduates

Abstract

This study examines the occupational aspirations of the physically handicapped secondary school students and compares these aspirations with the actual job placement. It also examines possible social factors such as sex, parental background, curriculum, self-concept and societal attitudes as they affect the occupational aspirations. The study aimed at investigating whether-the society considers the occupational aspirations of the physically handicapped persons while placing them in jobs. The population was drawn from physically handicapped persons from both secondary schools and from those graduates already in employment. A total of eighty one (81) students from two special secondary schools were sampled. Also in the sample, thirty (30) physically handicapped persons in employment in both public and private sectors were included. A questionnaire and an interview schedule were used to elicit the pertinent data from the respondents. Descriptive statistics in form of percentages and frequencies and Spearman's Rank correlation co-efficient were used in analysing the data. The study found among other things that the physically handicapped persons were discriminated in job placement, their aspirations were stunted by the society's stereotyped decisions. The society was found to readily offer menial occupations such as weaving, basketry, leather work, copy-typing, telephone operating and clerical jobs: The physically handicapped persons were found to have a high self-perception, willing to contribute and compete with others. Majority aspired for higher education, skill training and professional jobs such as teaching, medicine, nursing as well as self-employment and secretarial/clerical jobs. It was noted that none of the subjects aspired for begging. The curriculum offered in both secondary schools and vocational and rehabilitation centres was found to be unrelated to the job realities in Kenya. The findings of this study seem to agree with various studies in the literature review. Recommendations from this study concludes that the physically handicapped persons' aspirations should be considered in job placement, vocational or occupational training should be integrated., Further recommendation point out that there is need to create social awareness as to what the physically handicapped can contribute.