Browsing by Author "Tilahun Achaw"
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Item Assess the Influence of Children’s Labor on their Participation in Education at Bochesa Elementary School in Adami Tulu Jido Combolcha Woreda in East Shewa.(Addis Ababa University , 2022-01) Amanuel Tesfaye; Tilahun AchawThe study at over all estimated that about 1 in 3 children aged 5-14 years in sub-Saharan Africa are employed compared with Central and Eastern Europe/Common wealth of Independent States (CEE/CIS) regions. Where only 1 out of 20 children is employed, In absolute terms, 69 million children in sub-Saharan Africa, or 35% of the child population, are engaged in child labor (ILO, 2006). This statistic leaves sub-Saharan Africa, including Ethiopia, the most dominant in terms of widespread child labor. This study was conducted in East shawa districts of Adami Tulu Jido Combolcha Woreda. Specifically, the study was carried out with the following objectives: To examine the impact of lack of time on primary education access and participation, to determine the impact of low school attendance on access and participate in primary education activities carried out by school-age children regarding access to and participation in primary education. The study used purposive sampling and snowball techniques, with the participation of 60 respondents. Both techniques are practical due to the nature of the research. Child labor has been found to have a huge impact on school-going students because it deprives children of their right to access and participate in primary education. Research shows that low school attendance and absenteeism are the main influeances of child labor on children's access to and participation in primary education, as they affect children's learning outcomes. In addition, the study found that most laws relating to child education have loopholes, enabling another 4,444 acts of child labor in Ethiopia. It is therefore imperative that governments and all other responsible agencies ensure that policies and legislation address child labor issues and, in particular, children's participation in school worksItem Attitude of Health Professionals towards Persons with Disabilities and its Associated Factors at St. Paul Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.(Addis Ababa University, 2023-01) Hanna Asefa; Tilahun AchawThe experience that people with disabilities face while using health care services is a complex interaction between their medical condition and the social and physical environment. The attitude of health professional affects the rehabilitation outcome and interaction with the society. The aim of this study is to assess the attitude of health professionals towards person with disability in St. Paul Millennium Medical College Hospital in Ethiopia. A cross- sectional survey was conducted from November 10 to December 9, 2022; to assess the attitude towards disabled patients among health care professionals in St. Paul Millennium Medical College Hospital. The sample size for the study was calculated using single population formula, and a total of 422 study participants were recruited for the study, using random sampling techniques. Data was collected using a self-administered questioner developed by using Attitudes Towards Disabled Persons Scale, consisting of 20 items rated on a six-point Likert Type Scale. The collected data was entered to Epi data software and exported to SPSS version 26, for further analysis. Descriptive and Inferential statistical analysis was conducted to describe the variables and to identify the association between dependent and independent variables. Healthcare professionals participating in the study were with mean age of 27.9±4.1 years. The study showed the proportion of health professionals having a positive attitude towards disabled people to be 77.2%. In addition, factors that showed a statistically significant association with the attitude of health professionals towards disabled persons include: Age of the participants [AOR= 2.67; 95%CI (1.33-11.45)], profession of the participants physicians[AOR=0.25; 95%CI(0.71-0.88)], income level [AOR= 2.97 ; 95%CI(1.34–12.76)],presence of disabled person in family [AOR= 3.12; 95%CI(1.74–14.22)] and contact with disabled[AOR= 2.22; 95%CI(1.98–5.15)]. age of the health care professionals, profession, income level, presence of disabled person in the family, and having contact with disabled persons were determinants of having negative attitude towards disabled persons. Therefore, interventions to improve the attitude of health professionals should focus on the identified factors.Item Challenges and Opportunities of Teaching Signed Afan Oromo in Case of Sebeta Special Needs Education Teachers’ College(Addis Ababa University, 2014-06) Fikrte Shiferaw; Tilahun AchawSign Language is a natural language used as a method of communication for deaf people in their day to day activities; Signed Spoken Language is also the other method of communication commonly used in our country to teach children with hearing impairment. The purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges and opportunities of teaching Signed Afan Oromo in the case of SSNETC. To carry out the study, relevant literature review was made, and four tools of data gathering were employed. These were questionnaire for 3 rd year SNE students, interview for SAO instructors, SL class observation and document analysis. The results of the study indicate that the teaching-learning of SAO in the college has been hindered by serious challenges, the opening of the college, enrolment of deaf trainees are the main opportunity to learn SAO. Based on the findings it is possible to conclude that if the trainees couldn’t communicate effectively using Sign Language, it is difficult to them to give quality education and necessary support for deaf children at the grassroots level. Sebeta Special Needs Education Teachers’ College should give attention to SL teaching and facilitate training for all SL instructorsItem Challenges to Implement Inclusive Education in some selected Schools of Kolfe Keranio Sub City, Addis Ababa.(Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2025-07) Hana Etana; Tilahun AchawThis study assessed the challenges inhibiting effective inclusive education for selected Kolfe Keranio Sub-city schools in Addis Ababa. Through a qualitative approach and descriptive design, data collection took place through semi-structured interviews and observation with general education teachers, school administrators/deans, and SNE specialists. This study found that critical challenges inhibiting effective inclusion exist in teacher training and funding, access to assistive technology, and adapted resources for learning and participation. The greatest challenge inhibiting effective inclusion exists in the ideological approach to an inclusive education policy, where policy suggestions remain vague and assessments fail. Furthermore, low stakeholder engagement was noted. As a result, this study concludes that effective inclusion at these Kolfe Keranio Sub-city schools is challenged and limited by training, resource, policy, and facilities challenges that can only be addressed with far-reaching critical attention. Time dedicated to training teachers, redrafting best-practice policy to fit the situational need,increasing stakeholders engagement.Item Current Practice on the Implementation of the Educational Rights of Children with Physical Disability in Addis Ababa: the Case of Menelik Ii Primary and Preparatory Schools(Addis Ababa University, 2014-11) Blen Tilahun; Tilahun AchawThe purpose of this research is to examine the current practices on the implementation of the educational rights of children with physical disability in Addis Ababa by taking Menelik II Primary and Preparatory Schools. It specifically explore the level of awareness, the status of discrimination, the situation of availability and accessibility of different services and facilities like class rooms, pipe water, toilet rooms, library, laboratory etc. and the role of stakeholders in making the school environment accessible and comfortable for students using wheelchair. The researcher collects primary data from students using wheelchair, teachers, directors, PTSA and other relevant Governmental and NGO stakeholders. This research employed questionnaire, question guides, focus group discussion, field observation and photography were used to collect relevant data. The result indicates that wheelchair user students lag several years behind their age mates in accessing basic education. There is a problem in awareness mainly on students and society in relation to the educational rights of persons with physical disability. Besides there is a chronic challenge on accessing services and facilities like class rooms, pipe water, toilet, separate toilet for students with physical disability, library and laboratory. In order to create a harmonious school environment for students using wheelchair the research forwards conducting awareness raising training to the students, government officials, society etc, employ inclusive approach to involve students using wheelchair in decision making, working together to make school accessible, amend/revisit the existing CSO and develop different incentive mechanisms for those NGOs working on the educational rights of persons with disabilityItem Impact of intervention Strategies on the interpersonal behavior of children with conduct disorder: a Study of three cases in south west Shoa Zone, woliso town(Addis Ababa University, 2015-02) Addisu Hordofa; Tilahun AchawThe major purpose of the study is to identify the impact of intervention strategies on the interpersonal behaviors of children with conduct disorder. The subjects of the study were three children selected from the children who were believed to have conduct disorder and supported in compassion organization at Woliso town and who come from relatively lower socio-economic status. Observation and interviews were data collection instruments used to collect data from children with conduct disorder, parents and teacher of the children. The result of the study shows that the appropriate use of intervention strategies as parent management training, solving school related factors, discussing with peer groups about the children and helping or supporting the children themselves to have a positive relationship with others have a positive impact on the interpersonal behaviors of children with conduct disorder. The intervention strategies reduced the interpersonal problems of the children with conduct disorder. And also the interpersonal behaviors of the children with conduct disorder were improved when compared with their own previous behaviors because of the applied intervention strategies. Family management training, solving school related factors, discussing with peer groups about the subjects are the effective intervention strategies for the children with conduct disorderItem Inclusive Education Practices in Selected Primary Schools of Addis Ababa at Lafto Sub-City(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10) Belay Getnet; Tilahun AchawThis study was investigated the practice of inclusive education in four primary schools located in the Lafto sub-city of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The selected schools were Mekanissa, Hawaria, Gofa, and Netsanetchora Primary Schools. In order to know the meaningful implementation of inclusive education, case study design was used by the researcher .The purpose of the case study was to explore the experiences of students with disabilities and to understand how inclusive education is implemented at each selected primary schools. Purposive sampling was used to select a sample of four school principals, twenty regular teachers, and twenty-four students with disabilities. Data were collected through document reviews, classroom observations, and interviews with both regular teachers and students with disabilities to ensure data validity. The findings were presented narratively, analyzed, and discussed based on the emerging themes from the study questions. Despite a strong commitment to inclusive education, both regular teachers and school principals faced challenges due to limited experience and knowledge in this field. The study revealed a conflict between the general objective of educating all students with disabilities and the attitude school principals and teachers that inclusive education could only be partially achieved. Several barriers to effective implementation were identified, and recommendations were made for key school stakeholders. Further research was suggested to improve the implementation of inclusive education. Key words: Inclusive education, special/diverse needs, inclusive practiceItem Knowledge, attitude and behavior of blind and Deaf students about HIV/AIDS preventive Measures: The case of some selected schools in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2009-02) Zewdu Wolde; Tilahun AchawThis study investigated knowledge, attitude and behavior on HIV/AIDS among blind and deaf students in primary school of Addis Abeba City administration. Eighty-Four respondents participated in the study. The research adopted a descriptive survey research design. Eighty-Four students (40 blind and 44 deaf) participated in the study. Four hypotheses were postulated and tested. The main instrument use to gather data was HIV/AIDS Education inventory with reliability coefficient of 0.83. Student t-test methods at alpha level of 0.05 were used to analyze the data collected. The findings revealed that there were no significant differences in knowledge and behavior about HIV/AIDS prevention on blind and deaf students. On the basis of the positive outcome, the study further recommended some ways of improving the effectiveness of HIV/AIDS Education to be able to achieve the desired result among blind and deaf studentsItem The Practice of Center Based Early Intervention for Children with Intellectual Disability: The Case of Mekanisa Mekane Yesus Center For children and Adults With intellectual disability(Addis Ababa University, 2019-07) Anna Bekele; Tilahun AchawEarly intervention is very useful at every stage especially at the early stage of a child’s life; this is be-cause adequate program/management can be instituted on time. Early intervention services are designed to meet the needs of infants and toddlers who have a developmental delay or disability. However, thisstudy focuses on the practice of early intervention for children with intellectual disability through the provision of adaptive behavior skills training at Mekanisa Mekane Yesus center for children and adults with intellectual disability and it’s branch at kasanchis.The data were collected through interview, of two principals who served for 30 years in the center and the other principal who served in kasanchis branch for 15 years and five teachers one physiotherapist and five parents of children with intellectual disability and observation of teachers at actual time of adaptive behavior skill training for children with intellectual disabilityhave done by the researcher. Qualitative data analysis was employed to analyze the data. The result indicates the practice of early intervention, assessment and plan for early intervention types of adaptive skill training, parent’s participation on the provision of early interventionfor their children with intellectual disability, positive impact of early intervention on the life of children with intellectual disabil-ity as well as on the life of their parents. And also it indicated that children with intellectual disability received interventions through adaptive behavior skills training and vocational training. Finally, the study recommended parents participation, working with regular schools cooperatively working to create awareness regarding early intervention program for children with intellectual disability, concerned bod-ies in educational sectors should make the regular schools accessible for children with intellectual disa-bility and the center should work with regular schools cooperatively in order to solve the problem of chil-dren with intellectual disability. Key words children with intellectual disability, early intervention and adaptive behavior skill training for children with intellectual disability.Item The Practice of Inclusive Education in Some Selected Government Preschools of Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2019-06) Meseret Abate; Tilahun AchawThe aim of the study was to survey the practice of inclusive education in some selected government preschools of Addis Ababa. A descriptive survey research design was applied to identify the status of schools in practicing inclusive education in an early childhood setting. From 532 teachers 55 of them were purposely selected as sample respondents. Questionnaire were designed and administered for this purpose. Findings were the followings - there was interruption, for some implementation and participatory process in respect of the practice of inclusive education. the preschools do not provide assistive device in enough way. There is adequate light in the class room in the process of teaching and learning. And based on the summary of the findings this study concludes that implementation and participatory process are still in its infant stage the practice of inclusive education. Teachers have no sufficient skills like brail and sign language to teach SWDs in early childhood setting. Instructional materials and equipment are not easily acquired for meeting the needs of children with special needs in early childhood setting. So, it is better to enhance implementation and participatory process preschool clubs should have a room also for the disabled children. Short-term trainings on the special need should be conducted for preschool staffs. Rather than being dependent on additional support to recurrent budget searching for other alternative fund sources Key words: Inclusive education, early childhood educationItem The Practice, Challenges and Opportunities of Braille Skill Training for Adults with Late Visual Impairment in Addis Hiwot Rehabilitation Center(Addis Ababa University , 2021-12) Meskerem Behailu; Tilahun AchawBraille skill training, as a vision rehabilitation function, could be designed and implemented to benefit different categories of target people among whom adults with visual impairment constitute a fundamental subject of interest. The existence of different targets and contexts for such a vision rehabilitation is expected to emerge with unique practices, challenges, and opportunities for the specific trainee’s category. In this regard, a review of relevant literature by the researcher shows that there is a lacuna of empirical studies conducted on such relevant aspects. This thesis was, therefore, initiated with a general objective of exploring the practices, challenges and opportunities of braille skill training for adults with late visual impairment in Addis Hiwot rehabilitation center. A qualitative research approach, and specifically a descriptive case study method, was employed to explore the nature of issues of interest. A total of 5 participants were selected as key informants from both trainees (4) and a staff member (1) of the rehabilitation center using a judgment type of non-probability sampling method. Semi structured interviews and observations were the fundamental tools used to generate the primary data, while secondary information was mainly captured through reviewing relevant documents. A thematic analsyis was employed to analsyse the data and reach at meaningful findings. Eventually, the findings of the study were categorized and presented under three themes vis-à vis; practices, challenges, and opportunities. The practices were found to include orientation, teaching and learning, as well as conducting assessments; and challenges related to educational materials, physical environment, curriculum, personal wellbeing status, and socio- cultural and economic aspects were discovered. Opportunities, a third theme, also involved similar sub themes with those established under challenges. Given these findings, therefore, the researcher finally made such recommendations as; conducting further research to explore peculiar experiences of adults with a partial visual impairment across different rehabilitation centers, providing orientation on a continuous and multidisciplinary base to enable similar targets be impacted positively and consistently, creating relevant social platforms in which learners can interact horizontally during planning & implementing the different Braille skill training practices, improving distribution of educational materials such as braille books and relevant reference materials among learners, and financing establishment or maintenance of relevant facilities required for Braille skill trainings.Item The Practice, Challenges and Opportunities of Braille Skill Training for Adults with Late Visual Impairment in Addis Hiwot Rehabilitation Center(Addis Ababa University , 2021-12) Meskerem Behailu; Tilahun AchawBraille skill training, as a vision rehabilitation function, could be designed and implemented to benefit different categories of target people among whom adults with visual impairment constitute a fundamental subject of interest. The existence of different targets and contexts for such a vision rehabilitation is expected to emerge with unique practices, challenges, and opportunities for the specific trainee’s category. In this regard, a review of relevant literature by the researcher shows that there is a lacuna of empirical studies conducted on such relevant aspects. This thesis was, therefore, initiated with a general objective of exploring the practices, challenges and opportunities of braille skill training for adults with late visual impairment in Addis Hiwot rehabilitation center. A qualitative research approach, and specifically a descriptive case study method, was employed to explore the nature of issues of interest. A total of 5 participants were selected as key informants from both trainees (4) and a staff member (1) of the rehabilitation center using a judgment type of non-probability sampling method. Semi structured interviews and observations were the fundamental tools used to generate the primary data, while secondary information was mainly captured through reviewing relevant documents. A thematic analsyis was employed to analsyse the data and reach at meaningful findings. Eventually, the findings of the study were categorized and presented under three themes vis-à vis; practices, challenges, and opportunities. The practices were found to include orientation, teaching and learning, as well as conducting assessments; and challenges related to educational materials, physical environment, curriculum, personal wellbeing status, and socio- cultural and economic aspects were discovered. Opportunities, a third theme, also involved similar sub themes with those established under challenges. Given these findings, therefore, the researcher finally made such recommendations as; conducting further research to explore peculiar experiences of adults with a partial visual impairment across different rehabilitation centers, providing orientation on a continuous and multidisciplinary base to enable similar targets be impacted positively and consistently, creating relevant social platforms in which learners can interact horizontally during planning & implementing the different Braille skill training practices, improving distribution of educational materials such as braille books and relevant reference materials among learners, and financing establishment or maintenance of relevant facilities required for Braille skill trainings.Item Principals’ Attitude and Perception Towards The Implementation of Inclusive Education In Addis Ababa Kolfe Keraniyo Sub City(Addis Ababa University , 2020-06) Abeselom Getachew; Tilahun AchawPrevious researchers have indicated that principals play a key role in implementing successful and effective inclusive programs. However, there remains a gap in the literature regarding the attitudes and perceptions of principals toward the implementation of inclusive education. Therefore, the purpose of this quantitative methods research was to investigate the attitudes and perceptions of primary school principals towards the implementation of inclusive education in Addis Ababa Kolfe Keraniyo Sub city. A total of 86 participants; 56 male and 24 female principals and 6 supervisors and educational experts were selected by using simple random sampling and purposive sampling. Attitude and perception scales of five point Likert Scale, interview and open ended questions were used to collect data. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. This study investigated how demographic variables; sex, education level, experience and trainings affected principals’ attitudes and perceptions towards the implementation of inclusive education. Results indicated that most principals had negative attitudes and unrealistic perceptions towards the implementation of inclusive education. Of the variables sex, education level and training were significant predictors of unfavorable attitudes and unrealistic perceptions towards the implementation of inclusive education. The qualitative data results indicated that lack of training, lack of knowledge and experience about inclusive education, education level, lack of special needs focal person and special needs teachers, shortage of resources, and factors related to school physical environment were the major factors affected principals’ attitudes and perceptions. Ongoing training will prepare principals with positive attitudes and realistic perceptions towards the implementation of inclusive education.Item Provision of Academic Support to Low Academic Achieving Students Primary Schools in Dire Enchinni Woreda(Addis Ababa University, 2014-06) Gurmessa Chala; Tilahun AchawThis study aimed at surveying provision of academic support to grade five low academic achieving students in 14 primary schools found in Dire Enchinni woreda. To realize objective of the study, the data were collected from 110 teachers, 62 parents, 120 grade five low academic achieving students, 14 principals using interview schedule, and focus group discussion held with 11 parents committee. Percentage and thematic data analysis were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that academic support provided to the low academic achieving students is very low. This was due to low level of parental involvement in the school, parents’ low income, low educational level, rearing large number of children, students lack job opportunity after graduation, and parents’ lack of awareness about the value of education were found to be the major reasons for low level of support provided to students. In addition teachers lack commitment; large class size and focusing only on few support mechanisms were the other reasons for low support for the students. The study suggested that partnership of the parents and the school for the purpose of improving achievement and provision of support for low academic achieving students was crucialItem The Psychosocial Adjustment and Educational Achievement of Manjo Ethnic Minority Students in Two Schools of Bonga, Kafa Zone(Addis Ababa University, 2015-06) Kassahun Gebru; Tilahun AchawThe purpose of this study was to investigate the psychosocial adjustment and the educational achievement of Manjo ethnic minority students intwo schools of Bonga.Even though numbers were used to show the academic performance of the students, qualitative method descriptive study was mainly used to meet the objectives of the study. Interview, observation, focused group discussion and document analysis were tools employed to collect necessary data. Fourteen students and six teachers totally 20 participants were selected using snowball and purposive sampling techniques. The finding of the study showedthatManjo students’ had negative perception towards non-ManjoKafa students and towards themselves. Also, some Manjo students had negative perception for non-ManjoKafa teachers. In addition, the result of the study indicated that the interpersonal relationship between Manjo and non-ManjoKafa students was poor and the relationship among Manjo students was strong. Moreover, the academic performance of Manjo students was poor when it compared with the performance of non-Manjo students. The study finally concluded that, Manjo ethnic minority studentswere poorly adjusted psychosocially and poorly performed academically. Open and respectful intercultural discussions, awareness raising efforts through religious and social organizations and using different techniques in curricular and co-curricular activities were some of therecommendations made to enhance the psychosocial adjustment and the educational achievement of Manjo students Keywords:psychosocial, adjustment,perception,achievementItem The Psychosocial Experiences of Orphan Children in Gog Woreda in Gambella Regional State, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2017-06) Yousif Gilo; Tilahun AchawThe major purpose of the present study was to investigate the psychosocial experiences of orphan children in Pinyudo town in Gambella Regional State. The study employed phenomenological research design to describe common themes from the experiences that identify the phenomenon. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The participants of this study were orphan children between ages of 12-17 years. Data were collected using interview and FGD as tools. Interview was carried out with 12 orphan children from four Kebeles in Pinyudo town. Four male and eight female orphan children took part in the interview individually. During FGD sixteen orphan children participated in two groups in which each group composed of eight individuals. Purposive sampling technique was employed to select the participants. Qualitative data analysis approach was employed. Data analysis process was done through five stages. First, bracketing units; second, delineating units of meaning; third clustering of units of meaning to form themes; fourth, summary of each interview was done; fifth, extracting general and unique themes from all the interview and composite summary was made. Trustworthiness was confirmed for ensuring the rigor of the findings by using comfirmability. Orphan children indeed have hostile psychosocial experiences. It was found that orphan children suffered worse psychosocial situations. Participants strongly reported grievances, sorrows, isolations, despondencies, mourning and overthinking both during and after death of their parents. Poor interpersonal experiences were highly observed from the participants. Orphan children’s perception of self-esteem was found to be low. Mistreatment by primary caretakers/surviving parents was strongly reported by a number of the participants. The present study has identified lack of psychosocial support from individuals, community governments and non-governmental organizations.x Coping mechanism orphans comprises both adaptive and maladaptive was of coping. And finally based on the findings and conclusions some recommendations were forwarded to the district where this study was conducted in: Orphan children should be provided with special child guidance and counselling program in Gog Woreda; Offering early warning of psychological condition at district level should be considered; The woreda (district) council should recruit qualified community social workers at district level to enhance interpersonal experiences and self-esteem of orphan children; Child psychologists should be employed in each Kebele of Pinyudo town to help orphans cope with orphan hood challenges; Government should recruit personnel who have the skills to assess psycho-social problems and provide counselling services to orphan children in need; Rule governing child protection should be effectively implemented to alleviate child abuse practices; and Community should establish an organization that should aim at supporting orphans children psychologically, socially and educationallyItem The schooling situation of Hearing impaired pupils in four Regular Schools of Bahirdar and Debre Tabor Town(Addis Ababa University, 2002-06) Tilahun Achaw; Tirussew TeferraThe purpose of the study was to investigate the schooling situation of hearing impaired pupils at two special units and two integrated school settings of Bahirdar and Debretabor towns in Amhara region. To carry out the study, relevant literature review was made. Interviews with 69 participants (26 hearing impaired pupils, 20 teachers, and 23 parents) and observation were used to collect data. The data were grouped into categories. The results indicated lack of parental support, absence of modified curriculum, inappropriate instructional methods, lack of trained teachers, lack of motivation, absence of support services and teaching materials, and low expectation were found to be the major factors contributed the schooling problems of the hearing impaired pupils in the special and regular classes of the deaf in the study. Te incidence of the problem was highest in integrated classes than in special classes of the deaf. The study suggested a set of factors which may need due consideration for the schooling of the hearing impaired pupils in regular school settingsItem Social Skills Training for Children and Youth with Autism in NIA Foundation Joy Center(Addis Ababa University, 2017-06) Tigist Ayele; Tilahun AchawThe study aims to investigate the social skills training of children and youth with autism in Nia Foundation-Joy Center for Children with Autism. To accomplish this qualitative descriptive design was employed in order to investigate and describe the issue. The study area selected was Nia Foundation-Joy Center for Children with Autism in Addis Ababa. The number of participants involved in the study was 17. They were 2 administrators, 10 teachers and 5 parents. The administrators and teachers were selected with purposive sampling. The administrators were selected because of their relevance for the needed information and the teachers were selected based on their experience in teaching in the center. Participant parents were selected with availability sampling. The data collecting tools that used in the study were semi-structured interview and observation. The findings of the study show that the center had limitation in using variety of scientific social skills training types such as video modeling, social stories, superheroes, and peer training. The center also had limitation in using technologies specifically to give social skills training. The teachers are not enough qualified in the education and training of children with autism. The center has good strategies to work with parents. Based on the major findings of the study, it is recommended the center to improve the social skill training by using different scientific methods as well as by using available and cost effective technologies as well as governmental and nongovernmental organizations have to support the training and education of children and youth with autism in different possible waysItem Speech and Language Therapists’ Perspectives about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) System for People with Acquired Communication Disorders in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2024-05) Biruktawit Massresha; Tilahun AchawAcquired communication disorders, resulting from conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases, can severely impact an individual's ability to communicate effectively. AAC systems, which encompass a range of tools from simple picture boards to speech-generating devices, offer vital support for these individuals. This study aimed to explore SLTs perspectives, challenges in adopting and specific strategies to enhance the acceptance of AAC systems among individuals with ACDs in Addis Ababa. A qualitative research design was used with 9 speech therapists working in Addis Ababa with semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Interviews and group discussions were transcribed in Amharic and thematically analyzed. The findings reveal that while SLTs recognize the potential of AAC systems to enhance communication and improve the quality of life for individuals with ACDs, these barriers include the limited availability of AAC devices, a lack of training and professional development opportunities for SLTs, and insufficient awareness among patients and their families. Moreover, cultural considerations are crucial in the acceptance and success of AAC interventions. SLTs in Addis Ababa are advocating for increased awareness, enhanced training programs, and better resource allocation for AAC systems to improve communication in individuals with ACDs, while also seeking mentor-ship from other countries. For improving AAC service delivery in Addis Ababa, emphasizing the need for increased investment in resources, collaborating with multidisciplinary, comprehensive training programs for SLTs, and greater community outreach to raise awareness about the benefits of AAC systems. Keywords: Augmentative and Alternative Communication, acquired communication disorders; speech-language therapy, acceptanceItem Speech and Language Therapy Program Factors Contributing to Language Delay in Children at Jaziel Speech Therapy Clinic.(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Mahlet Azene; Tilahun AchawIntroduction: This study investigates the factors contributing to language delay in children at Jaziel Speech & Language Therapy Clinic. Numerous risk factors have been linked in the past to children’s linguistic delays. Both internal (originating from within the child) and external (originating from the environment) factors can have an impact on language delay. Objective: This study aims to identify and analyze the various factors, including internal and external factors that contribute to language delay among children. Method: A quantitative method approach was utilized and used questionnaire. This study conducted in Addis Ababa city particularly, around Megenagna at Jaziel Speech Therapy Clinic. The target populations for this study were the caregivers or parents who have children with delayed language in Jaziel Speech Therapy Clinic. This study prepared for 92 respondents for questionnaires. This study used stratified random sampling and purposive sampling technique. SPSS software used for the entry, analysis, and computation of the data. For quantitative variables, the mean, median, and standard deviation will be calculated. Data was presented using frequency tables, charts, and graphs. Result: The findings reveal that gender, neurological impairments and developmental disorders, perinatal and prenatal factors, screen time, limited exposure to language-rich environments and parental involvement is significant determinants of language delay. Some findings shows family history, hearing Infections or ear-related issues contributes to the language delay. Conclusion: By understanding these factors, this research identifies the factors and provides valuable insights on Factors of Language Delay among Children Attending Speech Therapy and this study reveals that language delays in children are influenced by internal and external factors. Recommendation: The study suggests early screening and diagnosis, addressing hearing issues, enriching language environments, and enhancing parental education and engagement.