A new disability plan aims to ensure students reach their full potential.
The recently launched University of Otago Te Kokeka Whakamua — Disability Action Plan 2024-27 builds on the institution’s long-standing focus on disability support.
The action plan sets out five main goals: ensuring Otago’s teaching and campus environments are inclusive and accessible; creating a barrier-free learning environment; enhancing holistic student support; responding to changing needs through innovation; and improving support for disabled staff.
In a statement, disability information and support manager Melissa Lethaby said about one in 10 University of Otago students had declared a disability.
"That number has been steadily tracking upwards over time, so the need to further strengthen and expand our proactive approach to disability support has never been greater."
