An accessible university starts with being considerate of one another. Not everyone studies or works under the same circumstances. A disability, chronic condition, neurodivergence, or mental health vulnerability can affect how someone studies, works, and participates in university life.
During Accessibility Week, the central question is therefore: What do students need to be able to participate fully?
Accessibility in Practice
This week, VU Amsterdam is organizing various activities for students and staff. For example, faculty members can gain practical tools for supporting students with disabilities and learn how to design their courses to be more accessible.
There is also a focus on well-being and sensory processing, with activities including mindfulness, yoga, meditation, and stimming. Students and staff can visit the information desk at Spot B daily with questions about accessibility and support.
The activities demonstrate that accessibility isn’t just about facilities or physical and digital barriers. Knowledge, understanding, and the space to express one’s needs also play an important role.
More Accessible Together
Accessibility Week is therefore not only an opportunity to share information but also to foster a conversation about inclusion within the VU. After all, an accessible university is not created solely through policy but also through daily practice: in the lecture hall, in the workplace, and in our interactions with one another.
Accessibility Week takes place from October 5 through 10. View the full program and sign up for the activities on the VU website.
