Gender Class and Disability Intersections: Enhancing Employability and Sustainability for Equitable National Development

Abstract

The intersectionality of gender, class, and disability has been recognized as a critical factor in shaping the experiences of marginalized groups in the labour market. Despite efforts to promote inclusivity and equity, individuals with disabilities, women, and lowincome individuals continue to face significant barriers to employability and sustainability. This study aims to contribute to the existing literature by exploring the intersections of gender, class and disability in the context of employability and sustainability. The objective is to examine the experiences of individuals with disabilities, gender and class in labour market; as well as identify key barriers to employability and sustainability faced by these groups in order to investigate the impact of intersectionality on employability and sustainability outcomes. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. A survey was administered to 1,200 participants combining men, women with disabilities and as well low-income pay workers. In-depth interviews were conducted with 60 participants to gather more detailed and nuanced information. The findings of the study reveal significant disparities in employability and sustainability outcomes across the intersections of gender, class and disability. For instance individuals with disabilities faced significant barriers to employment, including inaccessible workplaces and lack of accommodations and as well low-income individuals faced significant challenges in accessing education and training, which limited their employability and sustainability outcomes. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made: thus contributing to the existing literature on intersectionality, employability and sustainability.