Universitas Kristen Duta Wacana (UKDW) Yogyakarta has reaffirmed its commitment to becoming an inclusive and disability-friendly campus with the launch of its Disability Services Unit (ULD). The initiative was marked by a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on Friday, August 2, 2024, at Eastparc Hotel.
The ULD aims to ensure that students with disabilities receive accessible and inclusive services, with a focus on fostering independence and cultivating a culture of inclusivity across the campus.
“Understanding diversity in all its forms is essential,” said UKDW Rector, Dr.-Ing. Wiyatiningsih, S.T., M.T. “Our goal is to continue advancing sustainable inclusive education, which aligns with our university’s motto: Sustainable Entrepreneurial Research University (SERU).”
Dr. Rosa Delima, S.Kom., M.Kom., UKDW’s Vice Rector for Academic Affairs and Research, emphasized the university’s dedication to serving students with diverse needs. “Disability encompasses a wide range of conditions, both visible and invisible. Our task is to ensure that all students have equal access to education,” she noted.
Dr. Parmonangan Manurung, S.T., M.T., IAI., Vice Rector for Student Affairs, Alumni, Information, and Innovation, highlighted the moral responsibility UKDW has as an inclusive institution. “We must prepare ourselves to accommodate students with a wide spectrum of disabilities and ensure that their learning experience is seamless,” he said.
UKDW has already welcomed students with various disabilities, both apparent and hidden. Eni, a parent of two alumni who attended the FGD, shared her experience. “My children, both of whom use wheelchairs, graduated from UKDW. The university has been instrumental in their development, enabling them to succeed academically and professionally. However, there are still policies and facilities that need improvement. I hope UKDW continues to grow as a truly inclusive institution—not just in terms of infrastructure, but in how it treats students with disabilities,”she concluded. [mpk/trans.drr]