Universal Accessibility & Disability Services

15/10/2026

12/10/2026

A conversation worth continuing.

The CriSHET discussion on Inclusive Mathematical Literacy brought together different perspectives on teaching, learning and disability inclusion.

From preparing teachers for inclusive classrooms to understanding how learners transition from special schools into universities, the discussion reminded us that inclusion requires more than good intentions.

Thank you to CriSHET, the Madibaz Reading Group, Dr Nosiphiwo Delubom and everyone who contributed to this meaningful conversation.

Because inclusive education is something we build together.

08/10/2026

Exam season is here, and we're all hoping kuzodlula!

But getting through exams looks different for everyone.

At UADS, we're reminding students of three important things:

Know Your Support: because knowing where to seek help matters.

Prepare Your Way :because there's no one way to study.

Access Your Way: because every student deserves an opportunity to participate.

As you navigate this exam season, remember that your journey doesn't have to look like someone else's.

One exam at a time. Kuzodlula!

05/10/2026

Applying for NSFAS? 🎓
NSFAS has shared a helpful application guide to make the process easier to follow.
The video includes audio and SASL interpretation, making the information available in different ways. 🤟🏾💛
Watch and share with someone who might need it.
Video Cred- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

30/09/2026

During a conversation on Inclusive Mathematical Literacy, an important question came up about what inclusion actually looks like in the classroom.
The discussion touched on teachers who move from general schools into special schools, sometimes without having been fully prepared to teach learners with different support needs. Sinalo then asked a question that really got the room thinking: Is it fair for the whole class to stand still while a teacher gives more attention to a learner with a disability?
But the conversation went beyond the classroom.

A learner can move from a special school into a university that is not a “special university”. Suddenly, students with different needs and experiences are learning in the same spaces. So, are our teaching methods and support systems ready for that?

Dr Nosiphiwo Delubom shared that this conversation should continue through a round-table discussion that brings university staff, students with disabilities, other students and relevant stakeholders into the same room.
Because we cannot have conversations about students without having those conversations with students.
Maybe the question is not only, “How do we accommodate this learner?”
Maybe we should also be asking:
How do we create an education system where different learners can learn and progress together?
The conversation continues. 👁️

29/09/2026

September gave us more than one opportunity to look beyond what we think we know.
Our journey began with a student-led awareness session exploring partial and total blindness, in collaboration with Public Relations Management students and the Nkosinathi Foundation. Through conversations, activities and shared learning, we unpacked misconceptions about blindness and challenged ourselves to understand before assuming.
That conversation continued with Through Our Eyes: Culture, Disability & Eye Health, where UADS brought culture, lived experience and eye health into the same space. Cultural societies shared their expressions and perspectives, while Bona Ubuntu helped us turn the lens towards caring for our sight and understanding eye health.
Different events. Different conversations. One important thread:
What we see is only part of the story.
Thank you to the students, cultural societies, partners, colleagues and everyone who participated, asked questions, shared their perspectives and allowed themselves to see something differently.

05/08/2026

Creating an inclusive campus starts with informed conversations and collective action.

Universal Accessibility and Disability Services (UADS) recently partnered with the Health Peer Educators to facilitate a Disability Sensitivity Training aimed at strengthening understanding of disability, accessibility, and inclusive student support across Nelson Mandela University.

Facilitated by Siwe Nare, Student Access Co-ordinator at UADS, the session explored disability awareness, reasonable accommodation, respectful engagement, and the shared responsibility of creating environments where every student can participate, belong, and succeed.
At UADS, our work extends beyond providing support services. We strive to build awareness, challenge misconceptions, and equip the university community with the knowledge and confidence to remove barriers that limit participation. Every awareness session is an opportunity to foster a culture where accessibility is embedded in everyday practice.

Thank you to the Health Peer Educators for your active participation and commitment to promoting an inclusive campus community. Collaboration like this strengthens our collective ability to ensure that inclusion is not simply a principle, but a lived experience for every student

09/06/2026

22 May 2026 - UADS x LT Collab: Student Suceess Coaching
EmpowerAbility: Unlocking Potential facilitated by Student Success Coach, Vuyo Ndita.

The session focused on equipping students with practical strategies for academic success, self-advocacy, and effective learning. Vuyo provided students with a firsthand look at what a student success coaching session entails, helping them understand the support available to enhance their university experience.

Key discussions included developing effective study techniques, preparing mentally and academically for examinations, and the importance of planning, time management, and maintaining a realistic study schedule. Students were encouraged to build on their existing study habits and adopt smarter approaches to learning rather than simply studying harder.
Through interactive discussions and practical guidance, participants gained valuable tools they could apply immediately to improve their academic performance, boost their confidence, and take greater ownership of their educational journey.
A heartfelt thank you to Vuyo Ndita for sharing her expertise and inspiring students to unlock their full potential. We also extend our appreciation to all students who attended and actively participated in making the workshop a success.

08/06/2026

Seeing the World Through a Different Lens!

On 21 April, UADS hosted a screening of the film: The Reason I Jump. Based on the book by non-verbal autistic writer Naoki Higashida, the documentary follows five non-speaking autistic youngsters, offering a rare and deeply human look into their inner worlds through their own perspectives and experiences.

Autism is one of the most misunderstood neurological conditions out there usually because we do not always take the time to sit with it.
Screenings like this one create that space. To watch, to listen, and to walk away with a deeper understanding of a life that we may have never had to live, but all of us should take the time to understand.

03/06/2026

Take a break, breathe, and reconnect with yourself at Yoga Fridays.

Join us Every Friday at 12h00 at the Ilitha Free Expression Space, located at South Campus next to Postgraduate Village.

A session of mindfulness, relaxation, and wellness. everyone is welcome to come unwind and recharge for the exams ahead. You don't need to bring your own Matt.