The Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching at Fiji National University (FNU), Associate Professor Jimaima Lako, emphasized the institution’s dedication to providing equal access, full participation, and reasonable accommodations for students working towards their academic objectives.
Under the theme “Dream It, Weave It, Achieve It,” the university will offer students essential insights into the academic pathways available to them. Professor Lako remarked, “We ensure that FNU promotes disability awareness within the university community. Our vision is to be a national leader in achieving equal opportunities in education and employment for persons with disabilities.”
Approximately eight special schools are expected to take part in FNU’s open day across its various campuses. Auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters for students with hearing impairments and mobility instructors for those with vision impairments, will be available. These accommodations will be arranged in accordance with each student’s Individual Reasonable Adjustment Plan (IRAP).
FNU will also provide alternative formats for printed materials, including Braille and large print options, and can assist in enlarging documents or offering them in accessible formats like Word or PDF. In situations where direct assistance cannot be provided, the university will collaborate with lecturers to find feasible solutions.
Highlighting the resources available for special needs students, Professor Lako stated, “We will ensure accessibility to education and employment resources for persons with disabilities.” The university is equipped with assistive technologies such as JAWS Screen Reader and Magic Magnification Software, and its modern computer lab has software specifically designed to support students in completing their programs, including tools for those with vision and physical impairments.
The university commits to making reasonable adjustments to help students meet the essential requirements of their programs effectively, which may include accessible materials and additional time during exams. This year’s FNU Open Day aims to welcome a total of 17,489 students across its various campuses.
The Open Day dates are as follows: Nasinu on October 4-5, 2024; Naduna on October 3-4, 2024; Namaka on October 4, 2024; and Natabua on October 4, 2024.