celebrating international day of people with disabilities
FUSA wishes everyone a happy International Day of People With Disabilities!
To celebrate, we would like to share with you four exciting projects that FUSA have undertaken in 2021 to improve the experiences of students with disabilities at Flinders University.
Permanent Disabilities Space
FUSA has been working for many years to secure a permanent Disabilities Space where students can study, relax, socialise, and make new friends. In 2021, this project has finally become a reality! All renovations are now completed and we are in the final stages of furnishing the space, which is located on Level 1 of the Library and will be officially opened at the beginning of Semester 1, 2022. Keep your eyes peeled for the announcement of our launch party!
Updates to the Adaptive Technology Rooms in the Library
Further to securing the Disabilities Space, FUSA has facilitated upgrades to the existing Adaptive Technology rooms in the library. These upgrades included widening of the doors to facilitate wheelchair access, re-painting of the walls and installation of new signage and artworks, and replacement of outdated technology and furnishings.
Accessible Toilet & Shower in the Flinders University Sport and Fitness (FUSF) Centre
FUSA initiated the seeking of funding for the installation of an accessible toilet and shower facility in the FUSF Centre (Alan Mitchell Building, Level 3). The addition of an accessible shower to this building is a fantastic step towards maximising the accessibility, useability and safety of this facility to those with disabilities and access needs. This project signifies the dedication of FUSA, Flinders University Sport & Fitness, and Flinders University to embracing and celebrating diversity.
Basketball Wheelchairs
Following the success of Flinders’ very own wheelchair basketball team at the 2021 SA Intervarsity Challenge, FUSA has funded a fleet of high-tech sport wheelchairs to allow students (both disabled and able-bodied alike) to train, compete and enjoy inclusive sports and celebrate diversity. Due to COVID-related supply issues, we have received the first wheelchair, with the remaining chairs expected to arrive in early 2022. These will be available for students to hire from FUSF for use on the basketball courts on Level 1 of the Alan Mitchell Building.
If you are keen to learn more about the work that FUSA does to support students with disabilities, or if you have any questions, suggestions or require support, you can email Anu Francis at disabilities.officer@flinders.edu.au
Furthermore, next year we are placing a focus on building up the Disabilities Collective, which you can join at https://www.jotform.com/210458295030854
Disabilities Collective Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/fusadisabilitiescollective
