Analisis Kemandirian Penyandang Disabilitas dalam Mengelola Usaha Kecil Menengah di Kecamatan Siantar Utara Kota Pematang Siantar

Abstract

People with disabilities often face various challenges that prevent them from achieving independence. These challenges include limited accessibility, discrimination, lack of appropriate education and training, and minimal support from the community and government. In North Siantar District, there are many people with disabilities who have the potential to develop UKM. However, this potential has not been utilized optimally because of the various obstacles they face. Accessibility to business capital, skills training and marketing networks is often the main obstacle for them. This research aims to analyze the independence of people with disabilities in managing small and medium enterprises (UKM) in North Siantar District, Pematang Siantar City. Independence in this context includes aspects of the ability to plan, implement, manage and evaluate business. The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, observation and documentation. The research subjects consisted of people with disabilities who actively manage SMEs in the region. The research results show that people with disabilities in North Siantar District have varying levels of independence in managing their businesses. Factors that influence this independence include family support, access to capital and training, and local government policies. Despite facing various challenges, several people with disabilities have succeeded in showing high levels of independence by utilizing existing resources and innovation in managing businesses. This research suggests the need to increase accessibility to training and economic empowerment programs, as well as strengthening social networks for people with disabilities to support their independence in entrepreneurship.