Disability Information and Support (DI&S) Manager Melissa Lethaby, left, says the team is passionate about creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment at Otago. She invites tauira to get in touch or attend their Navigating University talk on 20 February (Zoom on 21 February).
Whether you have a disability, impairment, medical condition or temporary injury that impacts your studies, the Disability Information and Support (DI&S) team is here to help, manager Melissa Lethaby says.
“We want students to know that support is available and that they don’t need to navigate challenges alone. Our service is confidential, free, and designed to remove barriers to success.”
“Awareness is improving, but we find that many students don’t realise they are eligible for support, particularly those with temporary injuries.” – Melissa Lethaby
DI&S provides a wide range of services, including: Alternative test and exam arrangements; note-taking, access to lecture recordings, and assistive technology; specialised tutoring and learning support; accessible course materials; mobility support around campus; ergonomic furniture and equipment; New Zealand Sign Language interpreting; and support for students with temporary injuries, such as a broken limb.
“Awareness is improving, but we find that many students don’t realise they are eligible for support, particularly those with temporary injuries,” Melissa says.
“Some students also assume our services are only for those with permanent disabilities, when in fact, we support a broad range of students with different needs.
“We encourage anyone who thinks they may benefit from support to reach out.”
Attending information sessions or booking an appointment with the team early in the semester can help ensure the right support is in place at the right time – especially if alternative arrangements for tests and exams are needed, where applications need to be made well in advance, she says.
“There will be a Navigating University talk on 20 February (Zoom on 21 Feb), which is designed to help students understand the academic and practical support available at Otago. We’ll cover key topics such as study strategies, disability support services, and how to access campus resources.
“Two students will also share their experiences of managing study alongside their disability, impairment or medical condition. It’s a great opportunity for students to ask questions, meet others and connect with our team early in the semester.”
Otago alumna Rose Abdul Aziz, who was diagnosed with Graves’ disease in her first year at Otago, says the Disability Information and Support (DI&S) team helped her navigate the challenges of a new environment, new studies, and a new illness. A highlight of her time at university was going to Canada for a semester as part of the Otago Global Student Exchange.
One former Otago tauira who benefited from the service is Rose Abdul Aziz who graduated last year with a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in politics and minoring in religious studies and Indigenous development.
Rose was diagnosed with Graves’ disease – an immune system condition that affects the thyroid – during her first year at University.
“It was so difficult to navigate a whole new environment, new studies, and a new illness. My sister referred me to DI&S, which at that point I didn’t even know existed. I doubt I would have been able to thrive as much without having access to its services and accommodations.
“I was able to establish a wonderful relationship with the team – a special shout out to its manager Melissa Lethaby and my student advisor Rachel Aluesi – and access some of its wonderful services, which aim to foster an equitable environment on campus, allowing for disabled tauira to have access to services and accommodations that allow us to thrive.”
Inspired by DI&S, Rose and a group of fellow students worked to establish the Otago Disabled Students Association (ODSA), which aims to promote inclusivity, accessibility, acceptance and allyship on campus.
"We wanted a space run by students, where the disabled voice on campus was empowered and where we were able to foster a strong sense of community amongst each other and allies.”
DI&S has a dedicated team of 15 staff members. The advisers work closely with students to tailor support to their individual needs and then the support staff make the necessary arrangements for students to access notes, tutoring and alternative test/exam arrangements.
“We’re passionate about creating an inclusive and accessible learning environment at Otago and have two exceptional admins who assist students to make appointments to access supports they need,” Melissa says.
“Our goal is to remove barriers and enable all students to achieve their academic potential.”
– Kōrero by Internal Communications Adviser, Laura Hewson
Contact DI&S
The Disability Information and Support (DI&S) team can be found in the West Lane of the Information Services Building and can be emailed at disabilities@otago.ac.nz
Find out more