Facilities for Differently Abled

Inclusive Facilities for Persons with Disabilities at The Apollo University
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 emphasizes the importance of ensuring seamless accessibility to public and private spaces, workplaces, commercial establishments, public utilities, cultural and recreational venues, healthcare services, law enforcement facilities, transport systems, and most significantly, educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and higher education centers. In alignment with these progressive values, The Apollo University, Murukambattu, Chittoor, proudly champions the cause of inclusivity by offering an accessible and empowering campus environment. Committed to breaking barriers, the university has thoughtfully designed its infrastructure and facilities to support and uplift Persons with Disabilities, creating a space where everyone can thrive with dignity and equality. At The Apollo University (TAU), we believe in creating an inclusive and barrier-free environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. As a young and forward-thinking institution, TAU has embraced the necessity of accessible infrastructure, ensuring every student and staff member feels empowered and supported. Our campus is thoughtfully designed to uphold the highest standards of accessibility and inclusivity, with the following facilities:

• Barrier-Free Access Across Campus: A built environment that ensures smooth and unobstructed movement throughout the campus.
• Ramps and Elevators: Infrastructure equipped with ramps and lifts for easy access to classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and other essential spaces.
• Disabled-Friendly Amenities: Washrooms tailored for differently-abled individuals, along with clear and accessible signage, display boards, tactile paths, and signposts for seamless navigation.
• Assistive Technologies: Accessible digital platforms, and mechanized equipment to aid learning and communication.
• Information and Support Services: Dedicated provisions for assistance and screen-reading tools to cater to individual needs.
• Emergency Support Systems: Functional areas across campus are equipped with safety and prompt responses.

Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusivity TAU takes pride in adhering to the Guidelines and Space Standards for Barrier-Free Environments for Persons with Disabilities. From the earliest stages of planning and construction, accessibility has been integrated into every facet of our campus infrastructure. These efforts are aimed to offer inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. Also, faculty and staff are encouraged to view serving differently-abled students not only as a responsibility but as a privilege. In alignment with this, academic programs are designed to ensure that classrooms and facilities are located in the most accessible areas for students with disabilities, minimizing barriers and promoting ease of movement. At TAU, inclusivity isn’t just a practice; it’s a value we live by, ensuring every member of our community can excel and shine. Infrastructure Designed for All (In Line with UGC Guidelines)

1. Accessible Campus Infrastructure at The Apollo University

Our campus infrastructure is designed with thoughtful features to meet diverse accessibility needs:

• Ramps and Lifts: All buildings on the campus are equipped with ramps and lifts to enable seamless access for individuals with mobility impairments. The ramps are designed with optimal slopes, non-slip surfaces, and handrails for safety and convenience, ensuring that all areas of the campus are reachable without physical barriers.
• Wide Doors and Hallways: The university prioritizes ease of movement by incorporating wide doors and spacious hallways throughout its buildings. These design elements cater to the needs of wheelchair users, allowing smooth and unobstructed navigation across the campus.
• Accessible Toilets: Specially designed restrooms are available across the campus to meet the needs of persons with disabilities. These facilities include grab bars for support, larger spaces for easy maneuverability, and door mechanisms that are user-friendly. The layout and design ensure that every individual can use these amenities independently and safely.
• Elevators: All multi-story buildings on campus are equipped with wheelchair-accessible elevators. These elevators feature easy-to-use controls, clear and visible signage, and sufficient space to accommodate individuals with mobility aids. Escalators are also installed in key areas to enhance accessibility further, ensuring that everyone can move effortlessly between floors.

2. Academic Support for Students with Disabilities

To support their educational journey, the university provides academic assistance to address their specific needs:

• Extended Time for Examinations: Recognizing the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities, the university allows additional time for exams and assessments. This accommodation ensures that every student has the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills without undue pressure.
• Specialized Counseling: The university offers dedicated counselling services that provide both academic guidance and emotional support. These sessions are designed to help students with disabilities find the way to their educational experience, overcome challenges, and achieve their academic and personal goals.

3. Library Facilities for Students with Disabilities

The Apollo University library is dedicated to providing comprehensive and handy resources to ensure that students with disabilities have equal opportunities to engage with academic materials and enhance their learning experience.

• Accessible Library Resources: The university library is equipped with a variety of accessible reading materials to support students with different disabilities. This includes a wide range of e-resources of more than 10,000 subscriptions. These resources are designed to cater to students with visual impairments, providing them with the tools they need to access academic content. The digital library is also equipped with software that supports screen reading and other assistive technologies to make learning more accessible.
• Reading Assistance: To ensure that students with disabilities can make full use of library resources, the library staff assist them in accessing materials and navigating the library facilities. Whether it’s helping locate a specific book, offering guidance on using assistive technologies, or providing support with digital resources, the library staff is always available to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed in their academic pursuits.

4. Awareness and Sensitization Programs: To raise awareness and promote understanding about disabilities, the university regularly organizes workshops, seminars, and sensitization programs. These initiatives help educate the university community, reduce stigma, and provide a more supportive and inclusive environment for students with disabilities.
5. Barrier-Free Campus

The Apollo University cares to create a truly experiential campus by ensuring all buildings and facilities are easily accessible to individuals with disabilities.

• Clear Signage and Navigation Aids: The university campus includes clear, easy-to-read signage to guide individuals with disabilities across different buildings and facilities. These navigation aids help ensure that everyone can independently find their way around campus without confusion or barriers.
• Sports and Recreational Facilities: The University actively promotes participation in sports and recreational activities through 17 clubs. To this end, it provides adaptive equipment for students with physical disabilities, ensuring that all students can engage in physical activities and social recreational activities to enjoy a fulfilling campus life.