Fiji National University (FNU) is dedicated to ensuring equal access, active involvement, and adequate support for students striving to achieve their academic aspirations, according to Associate Professor Jimaima Lako, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching.
This year’s theme, “Dream It, Weave It, Achieve It,” aims to provide students with detailed insights into the academic opportunities available to them.
“We ensure that FNU promotes disability awareness within the university community,” Professor Lako stated. “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 participate in FNU’s open day across its various campuses. To support students with disabilities, services such as sign language interpreters for those with hearing impairments and orientation instructors for visually impaired students will be available. Assistance will be organized based on each student’s Individual Reasonable Adjustment Plan (IRAP).
Additionally, FNU offers alternative formats for printed materials, including Braille and large print. The institution can help enlarge documents or provide content in accessible formats like Word or PDF. In situations where specific accommodations cannot be met, staff will collaborate with lecturers to find solutions.
“We will ensure accessibility to education and employment resources for persons with disabilities,” Professor Lako emphasized.
FNU also provides assistive technologies, including JAWS Screen Reader and Magic Magnification Software. The university features a modern computer lab equipped with software tailored to aid students in their studies, including screen readers for the visually impaired and voice-activated software for those with physical disabilities.
“We provide reasonable adjustments to help them meet the inherent requirements of their programs to the best of their ability. These adjustments may include materials in accessible formats or additional time during exams,” she reiterated.
The upcoming FNU Open Day is expected to welcome approximately 17,489 students across multiple locations.
The scheduled dates for Open Day 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.