Targeted Vocational Training for the Disabled: From Idea to Implementation Considering the Diversity of Disability Types and Its Challenges
Background: Vocational training is critical for employment of persons with disabilities, yet barriers persist.
Aim: This narrative review synthesizes literature on targeted vocational training considering disability diversity.
Method: A search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2000–2024) was conducted using the keywords vocational training, disability, employment, and inclusivity. Inclusion criteria: English-language articles, reviews, case studies, and policy documents.
Results: Persons with disabilities receive food, clothing, school supplies, transportation, emotional support, information, and advocacy support from family, friends, and neighbours. They reciprocate by offering emotional support, helping with household tasks, and financial and material support. Improving community awareness, expanding social networks for persons with disabilities, and providing livelihood support for caregivers can strengthen natural support Effective programs address disability diversity through personalized assessments, hands-on learning, and strong stakeholder partnerships. The social and biopsychosocial models of disability are more effective than the medical model. Successful initiatives (e.g., Project SEARCH) show >70% employment outcomes. Major challenges include inconsistent funding, stigma, and lack of accessibility, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
Conclusion: Targeted vocational training must be embedded within rights-based frameworks (CRPD, CBR guidelines) and include ongoing support. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
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