Advancing Independence for Persons with Disabilities: Insights from a Digital Entrepreneurship Training Initiative

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are often associated with weakness and high dependence on others.However, with proper training and guidance, they can achieve independence and success, just like others.One approach to fostering independence and success among PWDs is through entrepreneurial activities.This paper discusses the outcomes of monitoring the implementation of a digital entrepreneurship training module for micro-entrepreneurs with disabilities (SKIL-TERPRENEUR OKU).This pilot study involved strategic collaboration between UKM, the Yayasan Peneraju Pendidikan Bumiputera, MDEC, and ISM.It adopted a qualitative case study design involving nine physically disabled entrepreneurs who successfully completed the program.Thematic analysis of focus group discussions revealed six emerging themes: (1) fluctuating health conditions, (2) declining motivation, (3) digitalization as a business tool, (4) businesses adapting to current circumstances, (5) partial application of learned skills, and (6) sensitivity to PWD capabilities (bureaucratic challenges).The findings of this study are expected to serve as a foundational model for encouraging more physically disabled individuals to become digital entrepreneurs in the future.