Social Work
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Item The Role of Income Generating Activities (Igas) In the Economic Empowerment of Returnee Women from the Middle East(Addis Abeba Universty, 2025-03-01) Ayinaddis Ejigu; Zena Berhanu (PhD)This study examines the role of Income-Generating Activities (IGAs) in promoting the economic empowerment of returnee women from the Middle East, focusing on the "Safe from Irregular Migration" project in Addis Ketema Sub-city, Addis Ababa. To overcome the economic challenges like the lack of jobs and financial dependency of returnee women, IGAs were implemented as a solution. The participants of the quantitative study were all 300 returnee migrants who were engaged in the IGAs program. The researcher used a mixed-method convergent design, the sampling technique for quantitatively used census with a structured questionnaire and analysis done by SPSS descriptive statistics. Purposive sampling was used for qualitative (15 participants) with semi-structured interviews for FGDs and in-depth interviews then analysis done by thematic analysis systematic step. The quantitative finding of this study shows improvement in the financial stability of participants, with 93.7% of respondents reporting income increments after the engagement in the program. According to the study, the qualitative result strengthens the quantitative findings and it shows the role of IGAs on participants` livelihoods. The respondent expressed a change from financial dependence to financial freedom and self-reliance. However, limited access to financial services without collateral, market linkage and lack of continuous capacity-building training were mentioned as the challenges through IGAs process. The study concludes that IGAs are an important tool for fostering the economic reintegration of returnee women. To maximize the impact of such an institution, it recommends strengthening training programs, expanding access to microfinance, and addressing structural barriers. Keywords: Decision-Making power, Economic Empowerment, Income Generating Activities (IGA),Item An Assessment of the Quality and Adequacy and Challenges of Providing Basic Service to Internally Displaced Persons, In IDPs Campsites in Amhara Region: The Case of 3 Selected IDPs Camps in Debre Birhan Town(Addis Ababa University, 2025-05-01) Demeke Getahun; Ashenafi Hagos (PhD)This study is intended to explore the role played by stakeholders in the provisions of basic services three selected IDPs camps in Debre Birhan town. The specific objectives of this study were to the quality of basic service and to identify the major challenges in the delivering quality of basic service to IDPs in the studied respect. This research employed a purposive sampling technique, which is a non-probability sampling technique where individuals are chosen for a study based on their specific characteristics, knowledge, or experiences that are relevant to the research question. For this study, a total of 17 internally displaced individuals (IDPs) who were beneficiaries of the program were selected as a key informants 10 women and 7 men, 7 key informant interviews were conducted. Out of these participants, 1 was woman and 6 were men. The researcher used primary data collection followed by in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, which include observational data collection, document review, field visits, and audio recording, which are used for efficient data analysis. The research find out the types of basic service provisions which includes food supply, medical service, water and hygiene and sanitation products are insufficient fulfill their need in addition to its poor quality. This study provides detailed information on basic service provisions for IDP inhabitants in Debre Birhan town and how their lives will improve. Also, the research provides important implications for social work education, stakeholders, policymakers, and research purposes.Item Exploring the role of social workers for pediatric oncology patients in case of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH)(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Lielteweyn Shibeshi; Commander Demelash Kassaye (PhD) and Emebet Mulugeta (PhD)Social workers play important role in health centers like Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital by addressing the complex needs of pediatric cancer patients on their emotional, financial, and psychosocial support. The study focused on the roles, interventions, of social workers on pediatric oncology patients and their families at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH). The research attempts to investigate social work practices in the pediatric oncology unit using a qualitative case study approach. The data gathered from social workers, medical experts and parents of children with cancer using a combination of in depth interviews, key informant interviews, and observations. The study emphasized on the impacts of social work interventions on patient care, treatment adherence, and family well being, the study used thematic analysis to find important trends and insights. In addition to highlighting the vital role social workers play in offering practical, social, financial and emotional assistance, the findings also pointed out resource related and structural issues that impede efficient service delivery. Also the research takes into account ethical principles applied like informed consent, privacy, and cultural awareness. Also this study intended to promote social work integration in Ethiopia's healthcare system by investigating social work practices in pediatric oncology at TASH. The study found that social workers at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital play key roles in supporting pediatric oncology patients and their caregivers by facing different challenges but by addressing these barriers could improve the quality and effectiveness of their support. The study underscores the need for enhanced social work education, practice, research, and policy reforms to strengthen the role of professional social workers in pediatric oncology care in Ethiopia. Key words: padriatic oncology, social worker, Role of social workersItem The experience of students with disabilities towards their social interaction with their non-disabled student mates: The case ofMenelik II Preparatory School for Higher Education and TikurAnbesa Secondary Schools.(Addis Ababa University, 2024-11-01) Kidus Abebe; Emebet Mulugeta (PhD)It is known that mutual engagement through social and interpersonal interaction of individuals is the reality and naturally occurring social phenomenon of any society. As it is the fact of life individuals are required to establish interpersonal relationship and engage in social activities for their mutual benefit and success. Hence, this study aims to investigate the response of students with disabilities to their social and interpersonal interaction with their nondisabled peers. Qualitative research approach was applied to undertake the study in two selected secondary schools. A total of 13 discussants with disabilities and 10 key informants recruited from the management staff of the study school where the participants of the study. Focus group discussion and interview were also used as data collection instruments to gather the opinions of the participants of the study. As confirmed the finding of the study, most of the participants of the study did believe that participant students with disabilities were aware of the importance of social and interpersonal interaction with their nondisabled peers, and even if such interaction results in mutual benefit, most likely students with disabilities were found advantageous by earning better benefit from such relationship. Furthermore, their limited engagement in extracurricular activities, negative attitude of the people towards disability, lack of due attention on the part of the government and appropriate intervention were mentioned as critical challenges that affected the social and interpersonal interaction of students with disabilities with their nondisabled peers. On contrary, appropriately practiced inclusive education was reported to be as doable strategy that contributed for the improvement of social and interpersonal interaction of students with nondisabled peers. Based on the key findings of the study, the strengthening of resource centers, the promotion of inclusive education, the involvement of relevant stakeholders and the availability of multidisciplinary support services in schools were enumerated as 1 recommendations for the improvement of the social and interpersonal interaction of students with disabilities with their nondisabled peers.Item The Psychosocial Impacts of Urban Renewal-Induced Displacement on Resetteld People at Gurara Condominium, Woreda 02, Yeka Sub-City, in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Yonas Abebe; Ashenafi Hagos (PhD)Urban renewal is a process of redevelopment or renovating older parts of cities and towns, including decay, inadequate infrastructure, and slum areas. Nodaway, urban renewal is an important issue and unavoidable to ensure the competences of cities with global cities. The study aims to explore the psychosocial impacts of urban renewal-induced displacement on resettledpeople in Addis Ababa, Yeka sub-city, woreda 02, at Gurara condominium. The study employed a qualitative research method with In-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and FGD to collect relevant data. Among displaced members five individuals were selected for an in-depth interview. Two focus group discussions employed, each team had six members or with a total of twelve members. Five key informants selected to get deep data. So, the data collected from 22 study participants. The primary participants of this study are displaced households selected through the purposive sampling method, who have knowledge and experiences. The results and the discussions parts of the study show that the role of government in solving the negative challenges was insignificant and in such projects community should actively participate, to alleviate the challenges. Therefore, the researcher recommended to the concerned stakeholders to improve the psychosocial impacts of relocation due to urban-renewal programs. Finally, the researcher also put crucial implications for the next researcher, for education, urban policy implementation and for affected communities. Key words: Urban renewal, psychosocial, Redevelopment, impact, displacement and resettlment.Item Exploring Peace and Security Dynamics in the East Gojjam Zone: Challenges and Opportunities for Community Development(Addis Ababa University, 2025-05-01) Yohannes Girma; Mengistu Legesse (PhD)The study explores peace and security trends in East Gojjam Zone, Amhara Regional State, on the backdrop of increased socio and political tensions in the region. Using a qualitative study design, the study explores the attitudes, experiences, and peace building activities among local communities after the armed conflict and political polarization. Data were collected through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with government officials, representatives of civil society organizations, religious leaders, elders, and youth. The findings unveil a sharp fall in peace and security, bearing much fuel from political exclusion, ethnic federalism, marginalization of youth, and demilitarization of regional forces. People experienced widespread psychological and material suffering, epitomized by terror, forced displacement, livelihood loss, and social breakdown. Conventional indigenous mechanisms of conflict resolution that were the hallmark of communal life hitherto have been eroded by politicization and distrust. And yet, concurrently, state responses were generally perceived as militarized and reactive, and civil society movements struggled to convincingly engage rural populations. In spite of this adversity, the research reveals strong domestic desires for peace and processes of recovery and reconciliation at the local level. Solutions ranged from inclusive talk, reform of the constitution, job opportunities for youth, to hybrid justice mechanisms that combine customary and formal systems. The research has addressed few theories such as Conflict Theory, Structural Violence and Community-Based Peace building paradigms, emphasizes the imperative of an inclusive, grassroots approach to sustainable peace building in East Gojjam Zone of Amhara regional State. The study concludes that enduring peace in East Gojjam Zone of Amhara regional state will not only require a cessation of violence but also re-established trust, justice and representative government. It offers recommendations to government, civil society, religious institutions and international organizations to support people-led peace processes attuned to the knowledge and resilience of the most impacted groups.Item Anxiety and Depression among Students with Visual Impairment: In the Case of Shashemene and Sebeta Primary Schools.(Addis Ababa University, 2025-06-01) Redwan Idris; Mengistu Legesse (PhD)This study assessed levels of anxiety and depression along with the associated factors. coping mechanisms among students with visual impairments at Shashemene and Sebeta Primary Schools was among the concern. An institution-based cross-sectional design was employed. 175 students were selected via multistage sampling (purposive setting selection) and stratified random sampling. Validated instruments measured anxiety (YAM-5), depression (Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale), perceived social support (SS-A), and coping mechanisms (CRI-Y adapted). Data were analyzed in SPSS 26 and Stata 14 using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Results revealed high prevalence: 39.4% experienced severe anxiety disorders and 36% severe major depressive disorders. Protective factors against anxiety included older age (OR: 0.643, p=0.002), supportive school environments (OR: 0.576, p=0.007), family/friend support, and parental education (OR: 0.434, p=0.011). Higher impairment severity significantly increased anxiety risk (OR: 1.709, p=0.021). Duration of impairment, parental income, and employment were non-significant. For depression, critical determinants were female gender (OR: 6.708, p=0.000), younger admission age (OR: 2.918, p=0.000), and longer school duration (OR: 3.72, p=0.000). Students from Sebeta faced five times the depression risk of Shashemene students (OR: 5.106, p=0.006). Visually impaired students predominantly favored adaptive coping strategies, especially positive reappraisal and problem-solving. The findings underscore an urgent need for targeted mental health interventions. Key strategies include enhancing social support networks, addressing institutional disparities between schools, and promoting adaptive coping mechanisms. Interventions must be tailored considering gender, age at admission, duration of stay, and degree of visual impairment to effectively support this vulnerable population. Keywords: Anxiety, Depression, copying strategies, risky factors, visual impairmentItem Assessing Street Connected Children Reunification Programs: The Case of Three Selected Organizations in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2025-05-01) Silas Samuel; Commander Demelash Kassaye (PhD)The need to find a better solution for supporting children on the street is a very demanding situation in the world. Street life has been a very challenging situation for Ethiopia and many other countries for the past many years. This assessment of the program (reunification) was done to shed light on the gaps of the program and look for a better solution for the best interest of a child. In the meantime, to prompt and encourage all the best parts of the program. In order to do that the three selected organisations provided all the needed gaps and advantages of the program. Which could be helpful to find a better solution for combating street life. By involving in depth interviews, key informant interviews and other data collecting methods, the assessment did its best to identify numerous issues, such as experiences and understandings of professionals, children and families using the program. In addition to that, all gaps and needs in the program are evaluated. The program provides different service that could help children be in a better life, the provided services are really good for the children but the problem is that the services does not continue once the children left the transition centre. Which causes the gaps of the program, children live a better/safe life for three months and go back to their” normal life”. The program never addressed the cause for children to leave home, when the causes are not addressed children lose their interest to go back to their homes and families. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing root causes and ensuring post-reunification support for sustainable outcomes. This assessment contributes valuable insight into the effectiveness of reunification programs and underscores the need for long-term, child-centred strategies to end the cycle of street life of children. Keywords: street connected children, reunification, program assessment, organizations intervention, Addis AbabaItem The Effects of Poor Solid Waste Management on Health and Socio-Economic Aspects the Case of Koshe“Lastic Sufer” Area of Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2021-05-01) Tsige Mekonnen; Firehiwot Jebessa (PhD)Developing countries like Ethiopia, let alone use their economic resources, they dump wastes in unauthorized sites, which easily expose their citizens to health and environmental hazards, It was the objective of this study to describe and analyze the effects of poor solid waste management on socio-economic and health issues. The study was guided by the basic questions: 1. what is the magnitude of community in Koshe“Lastic sufer” areas to health problem? 2. What are the social effects of Solid waste management in the community of Koshe“Lastic sufer” area? 3. What are the economic effects of Solid waste management in the community of Koshe “Lastic sufer” area? 4. What are the role of stakeholders in managing solid wastage?5.What are the main coping strategies of communities in Koshe“Lastic sufer” area?Data was collected from 100 households, which were selected through multi-stage sampling from dwellers of the area. Descriptive statistics was used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that typhoid and typhus, Diarrhea, common cold and tuberculosis were the main health problems caused by improper solid waste management in Koshe“Lastic sufer” e area, In addition, the study showed that there is a positive link between household’s income and waste generation as some of the residents in the area earn their living by engaging themselves in collecting solid waste.. Though all households have temporary storage in their home, they did not store wastes separately based on their nature. Disposing solid wastes in unauthorized sites by the households was highly practiced in Koshe“Lastic sufer” area. The finding further showed that, household head’s: sex, educational level, household’s location (distance of residents from the main road or center), household’s willingness to pay, awareness on solid waste management and access to the private waste collectors’ services were the major determinants of effective household solid waste management in the study area. It was concluded that Solid Waste Management at Koshe“Lastic sufer” area lacks integrated waste management approach and the systems were not all so effective that wastes are often improperly disposed in undesignated sites. It was recommended that the city Government has to set maximum efforts to introduce modern techniques of managing solid waste in the existing systems for effective solid waste management in Koshe “Lastic sufer” area. Key words: Koshe“Lastic sufer”, Effects, Waste, Solid waste, Households, Socio-economic factors, health factors, and household head.Item Challenges of Mothers Raising Children with Physical Disabilities and Spirituality as a Coping Mechanism: The Case of Cheshire Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08-01) Yeabsira Amdie; Fasil Negussie (PhD)The study explored the challenges of mothers raising children with physical disabilities and the role of spirituality in coping. The study used a qualitative approach to gather data from an organization known as Cheshire Ethiopia. The participants selected were service users of the organization where their children had physical disabilities such as Cerebral palsy and Spina bifida. The study collected data by interviewing the mothers and key informants in the organization. The key informants were rehabilitation workers employed within the organization responsible for assisting parents and children with counseling and physiotherapy. The study found that mothers had challenges related to their marriage, finances, occupation, social stigma, and isolation. The results also revealed that the most widely used coping mechanism was spiritual coping. Mothers used prayer, faith, and hope in God to cope with challenges they encountered in their day-to-day lives. Spirituality also benefited the mother's ability to find meaning in the child’s disability, grow personally, and become a better person. Key words: Mothers, physical disabilities, challenges, spirituality and copingItem The Challenges and Prospects of Community based antiretroviral treatment Service: The case of Akaki-kaliti health facilities in Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2024-12-01) Arest Mamo; Zena Berhanu (PhD)The research is aimed to assess the Challenges and prospects of community based antiretroviral treatment in Government health facilities at Akaki-Kality Subcity, Addis Ababa. The study used qualitative research method and case study as a research design. Primary source of data has been gathered through twelve in-depth interviews where Participants of the study Stable patients who were enrolled in community based ART service; seven key informants who were ART Nurses and medical director from each health facilities. One FGDs and observation has been conducted. Purposive sampling technique has been used. Thematic data analysis was applied. The finding of the study revealed that community ART service encompasses with an activities like health assessment, education and counseling, adherence support, peer psychosocial support, drug refills and referral linkage. The participant responded that community based ART is cost effective and relived the workload of the provider and saved their time, has decreased frequent visits to the clinic, felt comfort, moreover the group members has been empowered and involved in different saving and credit schemes and also different social support activities; However, challenges mentioned by participants were fear of Stigma and discrimination, luck of trust on quality of the service, the issue of confidentiality and shortage of human resource. The findings of this study will have an implication for further research, policy makers and planners who work on the area. Key words: Community based ART, task shifting, decentralizationItem Investigating Child Protection Mechanisms and Service Provision for Sexually Abused Female Children: In the case of Integrated Family Service Organization (IFSO)(Addis Ababa University, 2025-04-01) Herani Kidane; Debebe Ero (PhD)This study investigated on child protection mechanisms and service provision for sexually abused female in the case of integrated family service organization (IFSO). Qualitative research method was employed to describe major child protection mechanisms in IFSO to protect the children in the shelter from further abuse and service provision by IFSO. At the beginning, the researcher purposely chooses integrated family service organization for the study, for the reason that IFSO works with children for thirty years by protecting and supporting them. Then, purposive or judgmental sampling technique was used to select the participants. The participants are IFSO staff workers and governmental bodies, a total of thirteen participants were participated in this research and from them eight of them are IFSO staff workers and the rest five of them are governmental bodies. In-depth interview, Key informant interview, observation and document review were used to collect qualitative data. The qualitatively collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Form and signature, child protection safe guarding policy, safety and security and continuous follow-up are the four themes identified. The findings of the study imply that these themes are child protection mechanisms to protect the children from further abuse in IFSO shelter. Moreover, the finding shows that the service provision includes medication, counseling, food, clothes, shelter, training, formal Education, training, re integration and follow-up. The result of this study have paramount importance for Social Work implications to strengthening the child care services for sexually abused female children through different dimensions. In addition, the findings of the study have an implication for social policy to utilize untouched aspects of sexually abused children’s service provision and protection mechanism. Keywords: Child sexual abuse, child protection mechanisms, childcare shelterItem The Influence of Early Attachment Experience on Marital Relationship: in the Case of Addis Ababa Water and Sewerage Authority (Aawsa)(Addis Ababa University, 2025-02-01) Helina Teklay; Debebe Ero (PhD)This study investigates the enduring impact of early attachment experiences on the formation and maintenance of marital relationships. Attachment theory posits that the quality of early bonds with caregivers significantly shapes individuals' internal working models of relationships, which, in turn, influence their expectations, behaviors, and emotional responses in later romantic partnerships.The research examines how different attachment styles (secure, insecure ) developed in childhood are associated with various aspects of marital functioning, including relationship satisfaction, communication patterns, conflict resolution strategies, and emotional intimacy. Through quantitative and qualitative data analysis, the study explores the mechanisms by which early attachment experiences can influence marital dynamics.Findings individuals with secure attachment styles are more likely to experience satisfying and enduring marriages, characterized by trust, emotional intimacy, and effective conflict resolution. In contrast, individuals with insecure attachment styles (anxious or avoidant) often encounter difficulties in forming and maintaining healthy romantic relationships. Anxious individuals exhibit excessive neediness, jealousy, or fear of abandonment, while avoidant individuals struggle with emotional intimacy, trust, and commitment. The study also delves into the potential mediating factors that influence the relationship between early attachment styles and marital outcomes. These factors include personality traits, relationship experiences, and external stressors. Additionally, the research considers the implications of early attachment experiences for couples therapy and interventions aimed at improving marital relationships By understanding the enduring influence of early attachment experiences on marital relationships, this study contributes to the broader body of knowledge on attachment theory and its implications for interpersonal relationships. The findings inform clinical practice and provide valuable insights for individuals and couples seeking to enhance their marital satisfaction and well-being.Item Experience of Child Online Abuse among Secondary School students: the case of Selected Private Secondary School in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia(Addis Ababa University, 2024-10-01) Hanan Sabir; Friehiwot Jabessa (PhD)The rapid growth of the internet has revolutionized the way children interact and learn. However, this digitalization has also brought about new risks and challenges, particularly in the form of child online abuse. The purpose of this study is to explore the experience of child online abuse among secondary school students in Ethiopia, investigating the risks and opportunities associated with children's online activity, identify the different types of child online abuse, and examine potential intervention strategies to ensure the safety of children from online abuse. A qualitative research approach was adopted using non-probability purposive sampling. In-depth interview and key informant interview were conducted with 15 participants and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The study findings revealed that high school students in Ethiopia have experienced various forms of child online abuse, including cyber bullying and exposure to inappropriate content. Participants also highlighted the risks and opportunities associated with their online activities, as well as the diverse manifestations of child online abuse. Emerging themes suggested the need for comprehensive strategies to address these challenges, including enhancing digital literacy, strengthening child protection policies, and fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration. The insights gained from this study have significant implications for social work practice. Social workers can play a pivotal role in advocating for policy changes, developing educational programs, and collaborating with key stakeholders to create a safer online environment for children. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of child online abuse, social workers can contribute to the holistic well-being and protection of children in the digital age.Item Pre-Departure Processes of Overseas Labor Migration: The Case of Ethiopian Women Migrating to Saudi Arabia for Domestic Work.(Addis Ababa University, 2025-03-01) Beakal Kora; Mesele Mengsteab (PhD)This study examined the pre-departure process of Ethiopian women migrating to the Middle East (Saudi Arabia) as domestic workers by examining the ways information is gathered, the processes of recruitment, preparation (training and orientation), deployment, the roles of various actors, and challenges faced during the process. A qualitative research design was adopted by using purposive and snowball sampling. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with 10 migrant workers, 5 Ministry of Labor and Skills (MOLS) officials, and workers. Key informant interviews were conducted with 11 informants from 6 private overseas employment agencies (POEAs), 3 informants from the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) center, and 2 brokers. Document analysis were also used to gather data. The data was finally analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. The findings show that the pre-departure phase involves different processes, such as gathering information through various means. Moreover, the pre-departure process involves potential migrant workers registering on the Ethiopian Labor Market Information System (E-LMIS). The pre-departure process involves mandatory steps facilitated by the E-LMIS platform, including online registration, biometric identification, and obtaining a Labour ID and QR code for tracking and verification. Potential migrants without a Certificate of Competency (COC) must undergo domestic worker training at TVET centers and pass a COC test. The recruitment is often facilitated by POEAs through the musaned platforms if the destination country is Saudi Arabia, after securing job opportunities contract signing will be followed. Furthermore, medical examinations, visa processing, and further document processing facilitated by POEAs and submitting all required documents to the E-LMIS for review and evaluation to obtain approval to work overseas. The evaluation is done by MOLS. However, challenges include potential migrant workers’ information gaps, reliance on brokers, and geographical concentration of services. POEAs, TVET, and MOLS also face different challenges during the process. Generally, the recent reforms of labor migration have contributed to better and safer labor migration. However, there are still some challenges in the recruitment, training, and deployment process for overseas labor migration to the middle east countries specifically Saudi arabas as a female domestic worker. Key words: Pre-departure process, Overseas Labor migration, Domestic Workers, Recruitment.Item The Challenges Faced by Ethiopian Migrant Returnees From Europe in the Reintegration Process and Coping Mechanisms to Those Challenges(Addis Ababa University, 2025-05-01) Betelihem Tilahun; Ashenafi Hagos (PhD)Migration has become a significant phenomenon in the contemporary world, with millions of individuals migrating to seek better economic opportunities and flee violent conflicts in their home countries. However, not all migrants achieve success in their journeys for various reasons, and some eventually decide to return voluntarily to their country of origin. This study aims to investigate the challenges faced by Ethiopian migrant returnees from Europe during the reintegration process. Purposive sampling was used to select eight returnees from Europe who had lived in the host country for 3 years or more, along with three key informants from two organizations (one governmental and one non-governmental) that operate in the area of reintegrating returnees from Europe. A qualitative approach was chosen as the research method for this study, and data were collected using in-depth interviews through a semi-structured interview guide. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The results indicate that migrant returnees from Europe encounter three main challenges: economic, social, and psychological challenges throughout the reintegration process, and highlight some coping mechanisms. This study provides insights into the various dimensions of challenges and emphasizes that significant efforts are required to address those challenges at the individual, structural, and societal levels. Keywords: returnees, Europe, reintegration, challenges, coping mechanismsItem The Provision of Maternal Health Service Accessibility for Women with Physical Disability: In the Case of EWDNA and Menelik Ⅱ Referral Hospital, Addis Ababa(Addis Ababa University, 2025-03-01) Eyerusalem Getachew; Adamnesh Bogale (PhD)This study explored the provision of maternal health services for WWPD, focusing on the challenges they encounter at EWDNA and Menelik II Referral Hospital. It assessed the experiences and perceptions of WWP, the quality of maternal healthcare, investigated the perceptions of ANC, PNC, and labor ward staff, and identified associated factors affecting maternal health service provision. Employing a qualitative research approach with a phenomenological design, the study utilized purposive sampling to select ten WWPD and five maternal healthcare providers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, KII, and non participant observation, and subsequently analyzed using thematic analysis. The study revealed that the provision of maternal health services is hindered by infrastructural and facility-related barriers, including environmental inaccessibility, cramped examination and waiting rooms, a lack of accessible toilets, and the scarcity of mobility aids. Informational barriers, negatively impacting interactions between WWPD and healthcare professionals, and gaps in understanding disability rights were also identified. Furthermore, attitudinal barriers, including negative comments, the absence of formally structured postpartum maternity education, a lack of disability awareness among healthcare professionals, the absence of specialized equipment, and gaps in understanding the specific needs of WWPD were identified as factors affecting service provision. These findings suggest that healthcare professionals play a significant role in maternal health service provision. Therefore, disability awareness training should be conducted in conjunction with the provision of specialized equipment to address the specific needs of WWPD and improve service provision. Key words: Accessibility, Maternal health, Physical disability, ProvisionItem Substance Abuse and Social Well-Being of Youth: The Case of Yirgalem Town, Sidama National Regional State.(Addis Ababa University, 2024-05-01) Aklilu Altamo; Commander Demelash Kassaye (PhD)The objective of this study was to examine substance abuse and social well-being among the youth in Yirgalem Town. The research employed a cross sectional, descriptive design, and used both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study involved 339 youth involved in substance abuse and included key informant interviews with six participants. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The effects of substance abuse on the social well-being of youth were significant. The study found that 81.8% of respondents experienced discrimination or stigma due to substance abusing behavior they involved: A significant proportion (65.81%) had moderate relationships with their leaders or colleagues, while 72.6% reported poor relationships with the community. Low social trust was noted in 51.5% of participants, and 87.6% received low social support. Additionally, 88.5% experienced illnesses such as stomach ache, typhus, stress, and headaches in the past 30 days due to substance abuse, with 51.5% exhibiting poor behavior or mood and involved in crime act when using substances. The study also examined various aspects of substance abuse, including practice levels, reasons for use, and perceptions of its efficts. It found that alcohol (100%), khat (99.7%), and tobacco/cigarettes (90.6%) were the most commonly abused substances among the target youth, with a high prevalence of daily consumption. Key factors contributing to substance abuse initiation were peer pressure (57.5%), the desire for relaxation (77.8%), stimulation or alertness from substances like khat (73.7%), and stress relief(53.7%). These findings suggest significant implications for social work, particularly in the areas of education, policy, practice, andfurther research. Keywords: Substance, Substance abuse, Social well-being, Youth, Yirgalem.Item Rehabilitation Services and Associated Challenges for Child Abuse Survivors: A Case of Adama City Administration(Addis Ababa University, 2024-12-01) Abdi Wakjira; Ashenafi Hagos (PhD)Child abuse remains a pressing global issue, manifesting in various forms such as physical, sexual, emotional abuse, and neglect. The consequences of these abuses can be devastating, often resulting in long-term physical and mental health challenges for survivors. In Ethiopia, particularly in Adama City, information on the rehabilitation services available to survivors and the challenges they face is notably scarce. This study aims to explore the retrospective study on rehabilitation services for child abuse victim and associated challenges: a case of Adama city administration. To achieve the objective exploratory qualitative research design were used; the method of data collection was through in-depth interviews, document reviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The target population of the study was victimized children, their parents, and professionals such as police officers, social workers, health officers, attorneys, and representatives from women and child affairs who are actively involved with One Stop Centres. The findings indicate that child abuse in Adama City primarily involves labour exploitation, physical abuse, and sexual violence. A major challenge identified is the lack of coordination among various services and institutions involved in child protection and rehabilitation. Additionally, inadequate resources, insufficient institutional facilities, budget constraints, and a shortage of trained personnel further complicate the management of child abuse cases. There is also a notable lack of community awareness regarding child abuse and the available support services. Furthermore, insufficient medical resources hinder the treatment of children with special needs. Based on these findings, the study recommends enhancing the provision of care, rehabilitation, and support for children in difficult circumstances and for survivors of abuse. A multi-faceted approach involving better resource allocation, community education, and improved coordination among service providers is essential to effectively address the needs of these vulnerable populations. Keywords: Adama City, Child abuse, rehabilitation services, survivor challenges.Item Exploring Recidivism among Male Children in Conflict with the Law: the Case of Addis Ababa Women’s Children and Youth Affairs Rehabilitation Center for Children in Conflict with the Law(Addis Ababa University, 2023-11-01) Fiseha Abadi; Demelash Kassaye (PhD)Recidivism among male children in conflict with law has become a widespread occurrence in Ethiopia among most adolescents. Research focusing on aspects of recidivism in Ethiopia has emphasized on economic and social factors; being from poor families is pointed out as a major reasons behind recidivism, though this is not enough to conclude unless the causes of recidivism are systematically investigated. Thus, this study with the objective of exploring recidivism among male children in conflict with the law, engage at identifying factors related to recidivism. The study participants of this study are nine recidivist male children in conflict with law and key informants from Addis Ababa Women’s, Children and Youth Affairs Bureau Rehabilitation Center for Children in Conflict with the Law. Findings of this study indicate that drug subculture, peer pressure, being orphan, street life, child maltreatment, divorce, poor family economy and negative community attitude and lack of sufficient follow up and assistance up on release made children to recidivate a crime. At the end, the study concludes by recommending all relevant parties working to reduce the incidence of recidivism among children in conflict with the law. Key Words: Recidivism, Children in Conflict with the law, Recidivist Children, Rehabilitation