• Ask before you help
• Be sensitive about physical contact
• Think before you speak
• Do not make assumptions
• Respond graciously to requests

Most modules have a dedicated module site available with course material available. Find out from your lecturer how you can access this site or request the presentations to be emailed to you. You can always ask our Braille and enlargement office for further assistance should you have difficulty consulting your lecturers.

Make contact with your lecturer to arrange a lab assistant to assist with practicals. The lab assistants are adequately trained in JAWS and ZoomText software in the event that the user is visually impaired. Alternatively, you can make contact with our administrative secretary, who will arrange a student assistant from our volunteer database.

Yes, the unit has made provision for certain lifts to be dedicated to those with disabilities. They can be accessed by student card. Please arrange lift access with the Operations Manager if required.

For alternative routes please refer to the ‘Accessible Route Map’ on the Nelson Mandela University website or request copies from our offices.

The unit does facilitate its own programmes and events where students with disabilities can interact with one another. A special orientation programme is set up at the beginning of each year to enable the Unit to convey information relating to its services. However there are number of societies and co-curricular activities that students can participate in. The unit advocates for integration and inclusivity in the University community and activities.

If you do not feel comfortable approaching the lecturer, please feel free to consult the Student Access Coordinators and staff within the Unit. 

Yes, you will be required to indicate the need for this during your concession application before you can request the use of a scribe. Once approved, you can book a scribe using our online service.

This must be done, 7 days in advance to allow the Unt to arrange a scribe timeously.

In the case of exams, the Unit will liaise with the exams office to ensure that your requirements are met during the exam process.

The Nelson Mandela University Graduate Placement department located at each campus has a comprehensive resource database and qualified staff that will be able to talk to you about your concerns.

Yes, specialised vehicle transport is available. The decision to offer transportation as a related service to students with disabilities should be made when the student, because of his or her unique needs, cannot access the regular shuttle transportation services on campus or cannot access the buildings comfortably. Arrangements can be made with the Student Access Coordinator and Transport Facilitator to make use of this service.

A concession letter is a document of requirements needed by a student with a disability, to reach their full potential during their academic year at the university. These requirements are indicated by the student during the concessions application process, with the help of supporting documentation provided by health care professionals.