Unveiling Disability Empowerment: Evaluating ICT Skill Enhancement Initiatives in Indonesia

Abstract: This study examines the role of information and communication technology (ICT) skill development programs, such as the Digital Talent Scholarship and ICT Jamboree, in empowering people with disability across Indonesia. Grounded in empowerment theory, it investigates how these programs contribute to personal autonomy, economic engagement, and social inclusion. The research focuses on participants’ perceptions of the impact of ICT training on their independence and social integration. It also identifies challenges in applying ICT skills in daily life, including barriers to employment and limited access to assistive technologies like Braille displays and hearing aids. Through a qualitative approach—using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with 99 participants from diverse people with disability groups—the findings reveal significant improvements in self-confidence, digital literacy, and participants’ ability to overcome employment and online communication challenges. While ICT shows potential to reduce social isolation and foster digital inclusion, disparities in proficiency and access to adaptive tools remain. The study emphasizes the need for more tailored interventions and advocates for increased funding, better accessibility, and stronger public-private partnerships to advance disability inclusion through ICT, extending beyond Indonesia to Asia and the Middle East.