Dots to Dreams: Visually Impaired Youth Employability (Thailand, 2026)

Using a qualitative approach, data were collected from 81 participants—including visually impaired youth, employers, civil society organisations, educators, and government stakeholders—through focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and desk review. The analysis applies a rights-based and Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) lens.

Findings show that visually impaired youth possess strong transferable life skills such as communication, adaptability, and problem-solving, often developed through lived experience. However, a significant gap exists between these capabilities and available employment opportunities. Jobs are limited, frequently low-skilled, and often shaped by compliance with disability quota systems rather than meaningful inclusion. Key challenges include weak transition mechanisms from education to employment, inadequate career guidance, and limited alignment between training systems and labour market demands.

At the system level, the employability ecosystem is fragmented, with poor coordination among key institutions and heavy reliance on intermediaries such as civil society organisations for job matching and workplace integration. Employer perceptions, accessibility barriers, and policy implementation gaps further constrain access to secure and quality employment. Although Thailand has strong legal frameworks supporting disability rights, implementation prioritises compliance over long-term inclusion, job quality, and career progression.

The study concludes that while visually impaired youth demonstrate strong potential, employment outcomes are primarily limited by structural and systemic barriers rather than individual capability. Strengthening coordination across the ecosystem, improving employer engagement, and aligning skills development with labour market needs are critical to achieving sustainable and inclusive employment pathways.