The Role of Electronic Media in Promoting the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Uganda: A Case Study Kayunga District

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Date
2009-07
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Publisher
Kampala International University, bachelors degree in mass communication
Abstract
This report presents the results from a study about the role of electronic media in promoting the rights' of PWDs in Uganda, a case of Kayunga District. The result of the research was obtained among various participants that the study engaged. Generally, 50 individuals including members of Parliament, Local Government Councilors, Disabled People's organizations, PWDs themselves and Electronic Media Practitioners were involved in providing data through the questionnaires, interviews, observations and documentary reviews. Factor analysis, cross-tabulations, and examination suggest that orientations toward disability are associated with contempt even within media houses. In particular, media houses in Kayunga District do not respond to the demands for the rights of PWDs through programme reporting on airwaves. For instance, 42% of the respondents held that media coverage of PWD issues was rare. The media therefore, is seen to playing limited role of inclusion of PWDs rights in the mainstream society. As regards the study objective of effectiveness of legal and institutional framework, an analysis revealed overwhelming evidence that both instruments of promotion of PWD rights were none effective. On aggregate 29 (58%) and 33 (66%) out of 50 for legal and institutional framework respectively said that the benchmarks were ineffective. On the question of awareness of PWD rights by media practitioners, the findings revealed that were well aware of not only PWD rights but their own rights as well. On the contrary, however, their awareness of disability issues is not followed by actions. The report explores the findings and suggests recommendation course of actions to be taken and directions for future research. These include, legal audit should be done to evaluate the applicability of certain laws, monitoring and facilitation of institutions that deal directly with media houses. Also sensitization of the media fraternity on the importance of reporting disability issues. On top of this, there should be sponsorship of programmes by stakeholders on matters of disability.
Description
A Research Report Submitted In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mass Communication of Kampala International University
Keywords
Electronic Media, Rights of Persons, Disabilities, Kayunga District
Citation