Advisor of Center for GEDSI UNU Jogja Speaks at National Forum on Disability-Inclusive Higher Education in Jakarta

Jakarta, Indonesia – The Advisor of the Center for GEDSI at Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Yogyakarta (UNU Jogja), Dr. Wiwin S.A. Rohmawati, was invited as a speaker at the National Dissemination Forum on Disability-Inclusive Higher Education in Indonesia, organized by the British Council in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Jakarta, on Tuesday (January 27).

The national forum aimed to increase awareness among higher education institutions regarding regulatory obligations and inclusive practices, strengthen institutional understanding in establishing Disability Service Units, implement inclusive admission systems, and develop disability-friendly curricula. The event also promoted cross-sector dialogue and encouraged wider adoption of inclusive practices supported through the Going Global Partnerships (GGP) Disability Inclusion Partnerships program of the British Council.

The forum was attended by more than 200 participants onsite and 474 participants online via Zoom, representing universities across Indonesia. Participants included representatives from the Directorate of Learning, Student Affairs, and Cooperation of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, senior university leaders (such as vice rectors for academic and student affairs, heads of academic bureaus, and disability service focal points), as well as GGP Disability Inclusion Partnerships grantees and partners.

In her presentation, Dr. Wiwin shared UNU Jogja’s experience in managing the GEDSI program, including the roadmap for establishing and developing the Disability Service Unit, institutional readiness strategies, inclusive curriculum practices, and cross-sector coordination to support accessible and equitable campuses.

Her presentation received enthusiastic responses from participants. Many noted that her explanation provided concrete insights into how disability-inclusive higher education can be implemented in practice. Dr. Wiwin’s contribution was regarded as one of the most appreciated sessions during the forum.

As a form of recognition, British Council Indonesia delivered an official letter of appreciation for Dr. Wiwin’s contribution and openness in sharing experiences, policy insights, and practical recommendations. The letter highlighted her role in strengthening collective efforts to promote inclusive policies, expand access, and encourage more universities to take concrete steps toward disability-inclusive higher education.

UNU Jogja’s participation in this national forum reaffirms the institution’s commitment to mainstreaming equality, diversity, and inclusion, while strengthening its position as one of Indonesia’s emerging good practices in disability-inclusive higher education. [Latifah]