An analysis of the latest Commission on Employment Equity Report paints a bleak picture for the disability community as disability employment stagnates
Disability is a form of diversity that is often overlooked or ignored in the workplace. In South Africa, the Employment Equity Act of 1998 (EEA) sets a target of two percent representation of persons with disabilities in the workforce. However, the latest Commission on Employment Equity (CEE) report showed that the representation remained at 1,1 percent – far below the target.
Current status and trends
The latest CEE report showed that the representation of persons with disabilities varied significantly across different sectors, regions, and occupational levels, as well as among different disability types, races, and genders. The public sector had a higher representation of persons with disabilities.
Interestingly, the representation of persons with disabilities decreased as the occupational level increased, which indicated a lack of career progression opportunities for persons with disabilities.
What hinders disability employment
Some of the main factors and challenges that hinder the achievement of the two percent target for disability employment are a lack of awareness and understanding of disability and its implications for employment. This leads to discrimination, stigma, and the exclusion of persons with disabilities in the workplace.
Additionally, employer’s perceptions might result in a lack of reasonable accommodation and accessibility in the workplace, which pose barriers for persons with disabilities to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. People with disabilities in the workplace might also be overlooked for skills development and training opportunities; thus, limiting their employability and career prospects.
Another contributing factor is the lack of monitoring and enforcement of EEA and its regulations, which result in non-compliance, false or inaccurate reporting by employers and employees.
Possible solutions and strategies
The latest CEE report provided some recommendations and suggestions to improve the disability employment equity situation in South Africa. These included increasing awareness and understanding to promote a positive and inclusive culture and climate in the workspace; providing reasonable accommodation; and consulting and collaborating with people with disabilities to identify and address their needs and preferences. Employers can consider investing in the skill development and training for people with disabilities.
The CEE also noted the need for better enforcement of EEA regulations. A potential solution could be implementing efficient systems and mechanism to monitor and evaluate the progress and performance of companies when it comes to disability employment equity.
