UNS – The Center for Disability Studies (PSD) at the Research and Community Service Institute (LPPM) of Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta, in collaboration with the World Bank, organized the “UNS-WB Inclusive Education Symposium.” The event was held both in-person and virtually at the Ki Hadjar Dewantara UNS Tower on Wednesday (29/11/2023).

The UNS-WB Inclusive Education Symposium was opened by the Rector of UNS, Prof. Dr. Jamal Wiwoho S.H., M.Hum., represented on this occasion by the Acting Vice Rector for General Affairs and Human Resources (SDM), Prof. Dr. E. Muhtar, S.Pd., M.Si., CfrA.

In his remarks, Prof. Muhtar emphasized that UNS recognizes the importance of providing access to higher education for people with disabilities. Additionally, UNS strives to continually develop an inclusive and disability-friendly campus environment, including buildings and facilities.

“Some efforts made by UNS to support inclusive education at the university level include establishing Special Education Programs (Prodi) for both undergraduate and graduate levels. Furthermore, the establishment of the Center for Disability Studies (PSD) at LPPM UNS and the admission of students with disabilities through independent pathways without written tests,” Prof. Muhtar explained.

He also added that UNS manages 64 students with disabilities who are currently studying at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels in several faculties. All are well-served, with some of them being national and international athletes in various games, consistently bringing honor to UNS.

Meanwhile, Diah Pratiwi, the Program Manager for Basic Education at the Australian Embassy in Jakarta, expressed the Australian Embassy’s warm welcome and sincere appreciation for the symposium.

“Our development partnership program with the Indonesian government, civil society organizations, and disability organizations prioritizes gender equality, disability, and social inclusion,” Diah explained.

She also expressed hope that this event would open opportunities for future cooperation between UNS and development partners.

On the other hand, Achim Daniel Scmillen, the Human Development Manager at the World Bank, stated that the World Bank collaborates with workers with disabilities and actively participates in the development of inclusive education policies.

“The World Bank has conducted several studies on inclusive education in Indonesia, including online disability and inclusive education for early childhood education,” Achim clarified.

He also conveyed that this symposium would help address challenges by promoting robust dialogue and strong coordination. HUMAS UNS

Reporter: Dhelinta FP.

Editor: Dwi Hastuti