Reflecting on Spring 2018

As the spring 2018 semester comes to end, I can confidently say that I have very much enjoyed my preliminary research about people with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Zambia! So far, my research has focused on the social stigma surrounding ID. I learned that among all categories of disabilities in Zambia, adults with intellectual disabilities are the most vulnerable group in terms of the barriers they face when attempting to obtain formal sector employment. Even people who have acquired practical and employable skills still remain unemployed. This is where our research could potentially play a large role - if we can investigate the reasons for which unemployment rates are high for people with ID, we can begin to draft policy proposals to combat the issue. Efe (my research partner) and I did find evidence that for the relatively few people with ID who are employed, they tend to perform well, especially in the agriculture sector. This finding, however, may be problematic given that the agriculture sector may not be what is best for people with ID. Rather, it implies that the agriculture sector is the easiest way to find employment.


Efe and I were also intrigued to learn about the different prevalence rates of ID across various provinces in Zambia. For example, Luapula Province has the highest percentage of people with intellectual disabilities (6.5%); the province with the lowest percentage is Western Province with only 3.8%. Efe and I would like to analyze the differences between these two regions and attempt to answer the question of why the prevalence of ID varies. This could have larger policy implications in that we would not want to pursue a policy that may be to the detriment of one area within the country.


Looking forward, it will be interesting to see how the medical and social models of disability manifest themselves through the employment barriers and opportunities that individuals with intellectual disabilities encounter. Once we are in country, Efe and I would like to continue our preliminary research of the level of exposure to ID that Zambian experience, and potentially arguing for inclusion as a means of combating the stigma surrounding ID.


During this semester’s pre-departure course, I was able to successfully accomplish my personal learning goal of educating myself about the cultural, political, and environmental conditions in Zambia. The course exposed me to broader social, development, and global issues such as poverty, social justice, and gender equality. Additionally, the course helped me to analyze the accuracy and relevancy of my own worldview. This was always a goal of mine, and I am eager to continue to expand upon my worldview as I enter Zambia.


Another goal of mine was to establish relationships with the members of the cohort. I had a great time getting to know everyone in the program through coffee chats and group presentations, among other means. Continuing to strengthen our bond as a cohort will remain a goal of mine this summer, and I am eager to work alongside these wonderful people and learn from and with them.


With the semester ending, our upcoming travels to Zambia have begun to feel real. I find myself in awe of the opportunities that await us. While I feel a little afraid of leaving the comfort and routine of my life in Ithaca, I am so excited to explore and see what the rest of the world has to offer!