Manyarela also emphasises the lengths the university goes to meet each student’s individual needs. He joined Yolanda Maartens on the OFM Art Beat to encourage listeners to live life without limits.

The Disability Unit (DU) is committed to ensuring access to higher education for students with disabilities by creating an enabling environment where every student can achieve their full potential. Through a wide range of services and initiatives, the DU actively supports, empowers and integrates students with disabilities into the academic community. 

Advocating for inclusivity: awareness and infrastructure

To help break down the stigma often associated with disability, the DU runs awareness campaigns aimed at both students and staff. These initiatives promote understanding, challenge stereotypes and strengthen CUT’s culture of inclusivity.

A key milestone in this commitment is the DU space, officially opened on 19 May 2022 on the Bloemfontein campus. This dedicated centre includes a Disability Lab equipped with assistive devices and technology, demonstrating the university’s investment in accessible learning.

Navigating the campus: accessibility and safety

CUT recognises that a supportive academic experience begins with accessible campuses. With several large administrative and teaching buildings, ongoing efforts ensure ease of movement.

• Access routes: Buildings are accessible via designated parking bays, pathways, ramps, stairs and lifts.
• Universal design: Most buildings include universally accessible lifts and stairways.
• Easy access: Ramps for wheelchair users are available at most entrances.
• Safety measures: Pedestrian crossings, speed humps and posted speed limits help create a safer environment for all.

Comprehensive academic and practical support

The Disability Unit offers an extensive range of support services tailored to students’ needs. Working closely with lecturers, departments and faculties, the DU provides:

• Special test and exam arrangements through the Assessment and Graduation Unit.
• Specialised and formatted study materials at Room 130 in the Student Academic Support Centre.
• Advice on assignment writing and support for getting started.
• Academic tutoring through faculty lecturers.
• Library assistance from faculty librarians.

Contact and Operating Hours

The Disability Unit ensures its resources are available to students through convenient operating hours:

For more information, you can visit The Disability Unit.

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