10.6 Measures Against Discrimination
10.6.1 Non-Discriminatory Admissions Policy
10.6.2 Track Underrepresented Groups Applications
10.6.3 Recruit Underrepresented Groups
10.6.4 Anti-discrimination Policies
10.6.5 Diversity and Equality Committee
10.6.6 Support for Underrepresented Groups
10.6.7 Accessible Facilities
10.6.8 Disability Support Services
10.6.9 Disability Access Schemes
10.6.10 Disability Accommodation Policy
10.6.11 Anti-Harassment Policy
Disability Accommodation Policy
Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST) ensures that students with disabilities receive equal access to education and campus life through a structured and well-funded Disability Accommodation Policy. This policy, managed through the One Stop Student Services Center (OSC), outlines the procedures and resources available to support students with documented physical, sensory, or learning disabilities.
In alignment with SDG 10.6.10, GUST’s accommodation framework guarantees reasonable, personalized adjustments that enable students with disabilities to fully participate in university programs, assessments, and activities while maintaining academic integrity and fairness.
Policy Commitment and Funding
GUST’s Disability Accommodation Policy is guided by the principles of equity, inclusion, and accessibility. The University has allocated a dedicated budget for the Disability Services Unit to ensure timely implementation of accommodations and access to specialized equipment, note-takers, assistive technologies, and facility modifications when required.
This funding enables the University to address both individual student needs and broader accessibility improvements across campus, ensuring that no student is disadvantaged due to disability.
Accommodation Process
Students seeking support must submit documentation of their disability along with a Disability Accommodation Request Form to the OSC before the start of the semester. The Disability Services Team reviews the documentation to determine eligibility and then coordinates with faculty and administrative departments to implement approved accommodations.
Each accommodation plan is customized based on:
- The student’s documented needs.
- The nature of their program and course requirements.
- Recommendations from qualified medical or educational professionals.
All information shared during this process is treated with strict confidentiality to protect the student’s privacy and dignity.
Types of Accommodations Provided
GUST provides a comprehensive range of academic and physical accommodations, designed to address both learning disabilities and physical disabilities.
For Learning Disabilities:
- Proctoring Exams: Exams and quizzes are supervised at the One Stop Student Services Center (OSC) by trained staff from the Disability Services Team.
- Extended Time for Exams and Quizzes: Students may receive additional time as required by their accommodation plan, typically arranged in coordination with faculty.
- Orally Administered Exams: Students may choose to have exam questions read aloud or record their oral responses using approved devices.
- Note-Taking Services: A trained note-taker is hired to attend classes and provide comprehensive lecture notes confidentially to the student.
- Use of Assistive Technology: Students may use audio recorders, laptops, or other approved tools to support learning and participation in lectures.
For Physical Disabilities:
- Accessible Parking: Reserved parking spaces for students with disabilities are available through the Office of Student Life.
- Classroom Modifications: Adjustable tables and other specialized furniture are provided upon request through Campus Services, ensuring that classrooms remain inclusive and barrier-free.
- Physical Accessibility: The campus layout includes ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features that facilitate easy movement across buildings.
Through this structured policy, GUST reaffirms its commitment to reasonable accommodations, equal opportunity, and inclusive education. The University’s dedicated funding, professional staff, and collaborative approach ensure that all students — regardless of their disability — can access learning, facilities, and opportunities on an equal basis with their peers.
These practices directly advance SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities and SDG 4: Quality Education, making GUST a model for inclusive higher education in Kuwait and the wider region.
