By Daisy Atino

The university’s commitment to inclusion is transforming student life for persons with disability (PWDs). The Persons with Disabilities Act, passed in 2003, was designed to pave the way for change promising accessibility to various services including education. However, over two decades down the line, and despite the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) involvement, many institutions are yet to implement it. For years, students with disabilities in higher learning institutions in Kenya have had to explore a system that is limiting to their needs, but USIU-Africa is changing that.

From accessible infrastructure to assistive technology to inclusive practices, the university is transforming the student experience and public perception of persons with disabilities (PWDs). Whether it is the campus lifts that include braille, accessible walkway that smoothen movement for wheel chair users, availability of ramps that connect all major buildings, or accessible washrooms, facilities have been designed to be inclusive and easily accessible by all. Also, accommodations such as extended exam time, customized learning materials, and mobility aids have created an environment where students can focus on learning, not just surviving.

More than that, the university has qualified staff who are dedicated to supporting PWDs. One such person is Faith Musyoki, the university’s learning support and assistive technologist who is passionate about assisting persons with disability. She has supported the introduction of a variety of assistive technologies such as Zoom text screen reader that aid low-vision students and personalized learning accommodations to keep up with the pace without feeling singled out. “When students with hearing impairments can attend class without feeling left out. when a student in a wheelchair no longer has to ask for help to press a lift button, that’s not just about access, it’s about dignity,” says Faith Musyoki. She shared how a low vision student expressed so much joy, the first time she used Zoom text independently do their assignments.

Additionally, the staff at the various eateries on campus have been trained to recognize when a student needs assistance and help, from placing food order or assisting them get a seating table, the staff help naturally. Furthermore, USIU-Africa engages in awareness drives and social cohesion with events such as Inclusive Sports Day and Low Vision Awareness Month giving students a platform to embrace and celebrate their abilities.

For many persons with disability, the university’s commitment to investing in inclusive infrastructure and education, is more than just physical, it is a sense of belonging. “Before, there was always this feeling of being an outsider, like the world was built for others, not for me. But now, when I walk around campus, I feel like I’m part of the community,” says Joseph Awina, chairperson of the university’s Disability Club.

At USIU-Africa, care is becoming culture with both students and staff being very supportive of persons with disabilities. For a majority of PWDs, the most powerful change hasn’t come from the facilities or the technology, but from the growing sense of empathy within the community because true inclusion doesn’t just change systems, it changes hearts.