SDG 10 Indicator

10.6.2 10.6.3 10.6.4 10.6.6 10.6.7 10.6.8 10.6.9

10.6 – Measures against discrimination

10.6.8 – Disability support services

UKM has support services for people with disabilities. At UKM, the well-being and success of individuals with disabilities are central to its mission of fostering an inclusive academic and working environment.

The Disability Support and Services Unit (UPS-OKU) plays a crucial role, guided by the Guidelines for the Implementation of Disability Inclusive Policy in Higher Education Institutions to ensure accessibility. UKM provides sign language interpreters at events with disabled staff or students, supporting deaf and mute individuals.

Additionally, the Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) offers practical assistance, with volunteers helping disabled individuals across campus and during events. UKM also organises career programs tailored for disabled students, equipping them with guidance and resources for their career pathways. This support underscores UKM’s commitment to inclusivity and reducing inequalities.

DISABILITY SUPPORT AND SERVICES UNIT (UPS-OKU)

The UPS-OKU UKM was officially established on 12th December 2019 under the oversight of the Registrar’s Office, with full supervision by the Vice-Chancellor. The unit, located at Chancellery Building, Level 1, UKM was founded to ensure that students and staff with disabilities receive the assistance they need to succeed in both their academic and career paths at UKM.

In 2023, all staff and students with disabilities were registered under UPS-OKU, representing various disability categories, including visual, hearing, physical, learning, and mental disabilities. The unit’s mission extends beyond just providing services; it is a vital support system that empowers individuals to overcome challenges and fully participate in university life.

This infographic outlines the functions of UPS-OKU at UKM.

Core Functions of UPS-OKU:

Data Management: UPS-OKU collects and manages comprehensive information on all staff and students with disabilities, ensuring that their needs are met.
Reference for Academic and Infrastructure Support: The unit serves as a central reference point for staff, students, and visitors, ensuring that academic accommodations and infrastructural support are available as required. This includes collaborating with faculties to ensure accessible course materials and exam provisions.
Collaboration with External Entities: UPS-OKU builds strong relationships with government agencies, industry bodies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), creating pathways for additional resources and advocacy for the disabled community.
Awareness and Empowerment Programs: The unit regularly organises awareness campaigns and training programs within the UKM community to foster a culture of inclusivity, where all members understand and support the rights of people with disabilities.
Handling Complaints: UPS-OKU processes and resolves any complaints related to disability issues, ensuring that individuals’ concerns are heard and addressed promptly.

GUIDELINES AND COMPLIANCE

The operations of UPS-OKU adhere to the Guidelines for the Implementation of Disability Inclusive Policy in Higher Education Institutions, issued by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). These guidelines are aligned with UKM’s Strategic Planning (TERAS) 2021-2025 and emphasise three key areas: ensuring accessible learning and working environments, promoting awareness and inclusive policies, and developing an inclusive, empowered university community.

Furthermore, UPS-OKU’s initiatives comply with the Strategic Planning for Disability Inclusive Policy 2019-2023, reinforcing UKM’s commitment to being a leader in creating an accessible and supportive environment for people with disabilities.

This infographic illustrates UKM’s Strategic Planning (TERAS) 2021-2025, focusing on five pillars: Talent, Ethics, Revitalise, Agile, and Soul. It highlights UKM’s commitment to holistic development, digital innovation, community engagement, and well-being, with initiatives to enhance graduate employability and income generation.

The pdf below shows Disability Inclusive Policy in Higher Education Institutions, issued by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE):

Source: https://www.ukm.my/kelestarian/data/sdg10/Garis-Panduan-DIP-Final-For-Printing.pdf

SERVICES AND SUPPORT

As part of its disability support framework, UKM offers a range of services, including:

Sign Language Interpreter

As part of its commitment to reducing inequalities and promoting accessibility, UKM has made significant efforts to support disabled students and staff in their academic and professional journeys. The university provides sign language interpreters for individuals who are mute or deaf, including visible representation in UKM’s official song, Varsiti Kita. Furthermore, during every convocation session, a sign language interpreter is present, ensuring that all attendees, especially those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can fully participate in and celebrate their achievements. Additionally, in any event or occasion where disabled staff or students are present, a sign language interpreter is provided. This inclusive approach demonstrates UKM’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for all members of its community.

This screenshot from the Chancellor’s Session at 51st UKM Convocation Ceremony in 2023 shows a sign language interpreter. UKM provides an interpreter at every session, ensuring accessibility for the deaf community.

This picture shows a sign language interpreter present during the “Career Program for UKM Disabled Students and Alumni with Maybank,” ensuring that deaf and mute participants can fully understand and engage with the event’s content. This highlights UKM’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity for all attendees.

Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT)

UKM’s Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) plays a vital role in promoting awareness and understanding of the needs of staff and students with disabilities. This volunteer-based club not only raises awareness but also provides practical support to disabled individuals within the university community. Members of the club act as “buddies” to disabled staff and students, offering assistance such as helping them move between offices or classrooms, providing guidance around campus, and supporting them during events.

The Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) also organises activities for disabled staff and students, providing them with opportunities for engagement, social interaction, and community building within UKM. These activities aim to foster a supportive and inclusive environment, further enhancing the well-being and campus experience of disabled individuals.

Cakna OKU Volunteer Club (SAHABAT) embodies UKM’s commitment to inclusivity and creates a more supportive environment where disabled individuals feel valued and empowered.

Club members from **SAHABAT**, Nurul Ain Farhana and Ainun Arbaina, volunteered to assist Dr. Al Amril Othman, a blind lecturer in editing lecture materials at Dr. Al Amril’s office in FSSK.

Scholarship Assistance

Under the Unit Perkhidmatan dan Sokongan OKU (UPS-OKU), UKM provides support to students with disabilities in obtaining prestigious scholarships. In 2023, 11 students with disabilities received scholarships from prominent sources, including the Sime Darby Foundation, MyBrainsc, and others.

Number of Students with Disabilities Receiving Scholarships in Year 2023 by Education Level

Education Level	Number of Students
Bachelor’s Degree	7
Master’s Degree	3
Doctor of Philosophy	1