Challenges Faced By Parents Of Children With Intellectual Disabilities In Getting Education In District Gilgit.

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges faced by parents of children with intellectual disabilities in accessing education in District Gilgit. Despite education being every child’s fundamental right, parents encounter numerous barriers, including limited availability of suitable schools, inadequate trained teachers, financial constraints, and poor awareness of special education services. Geographic isolation and weak infrastructural support further restrict access, especially for rural families. Socio-cultural stigma, negative community attitudes, and misconceptions about disability intensify stress for parents and hinder children’s participation in mainstream schooling. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 40 parents through a structured questionnaire examining access barriers, awareness levels, and cultural influences. Findings reveal that transportation difficulties, lack of specialized schools, and limited institutional support are the most significant challenges. The study calls for improved inclusive education policies, better teacher training, stronger community awareness, and enhanced support systems to ensure equal educational opportunities for children with intellectual disabilities in Gilgit.