Home - Universal Accessibility and Disability Services

Who we are | Mission, Vission,

About us

The department plays a crucial role in ensuring that the university is accessible to people with disabilities and that their educational and social experiences are equitable.

Services

We offers comprehensive support services to students with disabilities, ensuring they can fully participate in academic life. Academic Accommodations, Assistive Technology etc

Meet the team

Disability Officers, Assistive Technology Specialists, Counselors and Psychologists, Administrative Staff.Ensuring that all students have equal opportunities for success.

Ilitha Free Expression Space

This is a space whereby one can come and relax, work, study and engage in activities like our board games, yoga sessions and group fun activities.

Gallery

Speak up

Radio Interviews

Colliqium and Indaba

Booking Forms

School Outreach

NMMB Community

Concession Guidlines

Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Resources

Policies

Inclusive Innovation Day

Nelson Mandela University Universal Accessibility and Disability Services (UADS), in collaboration with Tangible Africa, is proud to host Inclusive Innovation Day "a dynamic event that bridges accessibility, innovation, and education".

This initiative aims to promote digital inclusion and tangible learning, showcasing how accessible technologies and gamified tools can empower students of all abilities to think critically, collaborate, and innovate.

Date: 28 October 2025

Venue: Nelson Mandela University, South Campus – Ilitha Free Expression Space

Time: 12:30 – 15:00

Join us for an engaging afternoon of interactive learning, inclusive dialogue, and innovation in action!

Use the link below to register: https://forms.office.com/r/Vv8ejcGWbX

White Cane Awareness Walk

On 15 October 2025, Nelson Mandela University’s Universal Accessibility and Disability Services (UADS), in partnership with Bona uBuntu, will host the White Cane Awareness Walk in celebration of White Cane Awareness Day.

This day highlights the importance of the white cane as a symbol of independence, mobility, and safety for people who are blind or visually impaired. The event will include a walk South Campus, Embizweni to Ilitha Free Expression Space, as well as educational talks on visual impairment and mobility experiences.

Date: 15 October 2025

Venue: Embizweni, NMU South Campus, Gqeberha

Time: Registration from 12h00 | Walk begins 13h00

We invite students, staff, community members, and organisations to participate in this important initiative that promotes inclusion and accessibility for all.

Click here to register : https://forms.office.com/r/91wk5mVk7D

#WhiteCaneAwareness #Inclusion #Accessibility #NMU #bonaubuntu

2025 Disability Colloquium

Embracing Diversity, Empowering Minds and Bodies

Be a part of a powerful two-day event where changemakers, students,professionals, and advocates, come together to reimagine inclusion and accessibility. From inspiring keynotes to interactive workshops and cutting edge exhibitions, this colloquium is your space to learn, share and build a community where everyone belongs.

The 2025 "Embracing Diversity, Empowering Minds and Bodies" colloquium aims to bring together person with disabilities, esteemed practitioners and advocates in the field of disability, healthcare professionals, educators, and policymakers to explore and discuss ground-breaking ways to promote inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for people with disabilities.

To register please click on the link below

https://forms.office.com/r/52rryX0SnU

For enquiries, Please email Olwethu.deliwe@mandela.ac.za

South African Sign Language (SASL) workshop | 11-15 August 2025

Join the South African Sign Language (SASL) workshop that will be taking place from the 11^th to the 15^th of August.

In preparation of Deaf Awareness Month, Universal Accessibility & Disability Services (UADS) invites staff and students to learn the basics of the South African Sign Language.

Please take note of the following dates and venues,

11 August – North Campus | 14h00–15h00 | K014 (Visual Arts Lecture Venue)

12 August – 2nd Avenue | 14h00–15h00 | Main Building, Room 411_0_0006

14 August – Missionvale Campus | 08h00–09h00 | FP Building, 1st Floor, 5230112

15 August – South Campus | 14h00–15h00 | Rendezvous Café, International Office

This is your chance to gain practical sign language skills, build inclusive communication, and better connect with the Deaf community. Seating is limited per session.

To register for the workshop, please use the link below:

https://forms.office.com/r/Ysg2cpEdiP

For any enquiries, please contact Tricole.Zana@mandela.ac.za

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Contact Us

Mrs Tinita van Aardt
Administrative Assistant & Secretary
Tel: 041 504 2313
Tinita.vanAardt@mandela.ac.za

Universal Accessibility and Disability Services