Facilities for Differently-Abled
Divyangjan Facilities at Sant Baba Bhag Singh University
Sant Baba Bhag Singh University, situated in a serene and inclusive campus environment, is deeply committed to ensuring equal access to quality education for all, including persons with disabilities (Divyangjan). In accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC), the university has undertaken several initiatives to promote accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment for Divyangjan. These facilities are designed to enhance independent mobility, access to learning resources, and active participation in academic and co-curricular activities.
1. Barrier-Free Infrastructure
- Ramps with Railings: All academic blocks, administrative buildings, hostels, and libraries are equipped with gently sloped ramps along with hand railings to facilitate smooth wheelchair movement and easy navigation.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Wide corridors, low-inclined ramps, and anti-skid flooring ensure wheelchair-friendly movement throughout the campus.
- Automatic Doors: Entry and exit points of the main buildings have automatic or push-button doors, minimizing physical effort for those with mobility challenges.
2. Lifts and Elevators
- Spacious Lifts: Each multi-storeyed academic block and administrative building is equipped with high-capacity lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and ensure vertical mobility for Divyangjan.
- Braille Buttons and Audio Announcements: Elevators have Braille-labeled control panels and voice-enabled floor indicators for visually impaired individuals.
3. Accessible Washrooms
- Gender-Specific Accessible Toilets: Specially designed washrooms with grab bars, low-level wash basins, and wide doors have been installed in academic and residential buildings for ease of access.
- Signage: Clear and visible signage in both English and Hindi (and sometimes pictorial) marks the location of Divyangjan-friendly toilets.
4. Tactile Paths and Visual Signage
- Tactile Tiles: Dedicated tactile pathways help visually impaired students navigate independently from hostels to classrooms, libraries, and canteens.
- Contrasting Color Schemes and Sign Boards: Visual impairments are addressed through color-contrasting signs and large-font, readable information boards installed throughout the campus.
5. Assistive Technology and Learning Support
- Screen Reading Software: The university provides software such as JAWS, NVDA, and other screen readers in its computer labs for visually impaired students.
- Accessible Library: Digitized books, audio materials, and dedicated reading spaces are available to support inclusive learning.
- Note-taking Support: Peer support programs and scribe facilities are arranged during examinations or lectures, as needed.
6. Sensitization and Training
- Awareness Workshops: Periodic workshops and awareness campaigns are conducted to sensitize staff and students about disability rights and etiquette.
- Training for Faculty and Staff: Orientation sessions are organized for faculty and administrative personnel to enhance their capacity to support and accommodate students with disabilities effectively.
7. Transportation Facilities
- Wheelchair-Enabled Campus Transportation: University shuttle vehicles are equipped to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring that Divyangjan students can commute comfortably within the campus.
8. Hostel Facilities
- Ground Floor Accommodation: Priority is given to Divyangjan students for allocation of ground floor rooms in hostels.
- Customized Furnishings: Furniture and fixtures are customized to suit the mobility and ergonomic needs of differently-abled students.
Conclusion
Sant Baba Bhag Singh University upholds the principle of inclusive education by integrating accessibility and equal opportunity into its core infrastructure and services. The university continuously strives to provide a conducive, respectful, and empowering environment where students with disabilities can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
