Gender Differences in Challenges Faced by Students with Disabilities in Higher Education Institutions of Lahore

Abstract

This study explored the challenges of gender disparities among students with disabilities including visual and physical disabilities in institutions of higher learning. There are many barriers for disabled individuals during their higher education that significantly impact their overall well-being, socialization, and academic success, complicated further by cultural beliefs and structural barriers. This study used the ontological position of interpretivism, epistemological stance of social constructivism and theoretical lens of intersetionality. In-depth interviews were conducted with four boys and four girls selected from HEIs in Lahore. Themes were derived through thematic analysis. The results revealed that there are gender differences in financial problems, discrimination, and stigma experienced by students with disabilities. Women face more gender-based challenges than men. The study recommended focus oninclusivity, the debate against stigmatizing cultures, and empowerment of individuals through education and awareness-raising to create a more supportive and fairer academic environment.