- Trial lecture starts at 10.15
- Public defence starts at 12.00
The title of the trial lecture is "Stereotypes as barrier to social and economic inclusion"
The link to the thesis in AURA
Assessment committee:
- Professor Kjetil Bjorvatn, NHH
- Professor Andrew Muteti Musau, Høgskolen i Molde
- Førsteamanuensis Eirin Mølland, UiA - komiteleder
Supervisors in the doctoral work:
Summary of thesis
This doctoral thesis explores how Disability-Inclusive Savings Groups (DISGs) can open doors for persons with disabilities (PwDs) to better participate in economic and social life. In many low-income settings, PwDs face barriers to financial services and economic opportunities, which can exacerbate poverty and exclusion. This study explores whether savings groups designed to include PwDs can help overcome these barriers, improve wellbeing and promote inclusion.
This study draws on extensive data from the iSAVE programme in Uganda, the world's largest savings initiative for persons with disabilities, and combines innovative statistical analysis with practical experience from the programme. The results show that the sustained participation of persons with disabilities in these savings groups leads to tangible economic, financial and social benefits over time. The study also emphasises that while discrimination remains a persistent challenge, strategically managed group diversity can actually lead to better financial outcomes for all members. Furthermore, many DISGs demonstrate impressive operational effectiveness despite serving marginalised communities, with women’s leadership and entrepreneurial drive seen as critical factors in their success.
Overall, the work shows that with the right support structures, persons with disabilities can achieve greater economic independence and social participation. The work provides valuable insights for policy makers and practitioners aiming to create more inclusive financial systems that are in line with global goals to reduce poverty and inequality.
What to do as an online audience member
The disputation is open to the public. To follow the trial lecture and the public defence online, register on Zoom.
We ask online audience members to join no earlier than 10 minutes in advance. After these times, you can leave and rejoin the meeting at any time.
Opponent ex auditorio:
Deadline for the public to pose questions is during the break between the two opponents. Questions ex auditorio can be submitted to disputation chair.
Questions?
- gunvor.guttormsen@uia.no
- Phone
- +47 38 14 16 48