The University of the West Indies, St Augustine Campus recently hosted a special orientation for students with disabilities who are beginning their academic journey at the institution.
The programme provided them with an opportunity to learn about the support services, resources and accommodations available to help meet their educational needs and enhance their university experience.
Acting Director of the Division of Student Services and Development (DSSD), Kristi Mannette-Smith, highlighted the work of the division in helping students navigate university life and achieve academic success.
“At the DSSD and at the UWI we continue to work towards a campus that promotes accessibility, equity and inclusion. And that recognises that students require different forms of support to participate fully in university life, and we want you to have that full experience.”
Ms Mannette-Smith outlined the services which the university provides for students who have disabilities.
“Through the Student Life and Development Department, in particular, students with disabilities can access support relating to accommodation, academic and examination arrangements, assistive technology, and actually we’re in one of the buildings that is the hallmark of assistive technology, support groups, liaison with your faculty members and other campus stakeholders.”
Andrea Serracha, a student with a disability who is already enrolled at the university, joined other current students in sharing their experiences and insights with the new entrants.
“There’s a wide range of different accommodations that they make. So for my case, in particular, I cannot write as fast as the average person. I was supposed to be left-handed when I was born, but because of my brain condition, I had to relearn how to write with my right hand, so I can’t write as fast as the average student. So the extra time for exams has been that game changer for me, and I could tell you if it wasn’t for that, I would be failing many exams.”
The university provides academic instruction to thousands of learners, with individuals registered as having disabilities representing only a small proportion of the overall enrolment.