Siham may seem simple at first glance. It’s not immediately apparent that he has autism; it becomes noticeable when he speaks or engages in conversation. His speech can sometimes be hesitant and may need to be repeated for clarity.
Such is the case with Siham Hamda Zaula Mumtaza, a 2019 UGM Faculty of Animal Science (Animal Science UGM) student who entered through the Bidikmisi scholarship program from SMAN 1 Jepara, Central Java.
Siham was diagnosed with Asperger’s autism in elementary school. Loud noises or sudden shouts are particularly distressing for him. He is very sensitive to loud sounds, so he engages in activities independently and avoids large groups.
Despite this, he approaches his studies at Animal Science UGM with great enthusiasm. Siham commutes daily by bicycle from Condongcatur to the campus.
Aware of his differences from other students, he always sits in the front row during lectures. This helps him stay engaged and follow the learning process more effectively.
He appreciates the presence of the UKM Peduli Difabel (Disability Care Student Activity Unit) at UGM. This community has greatly assisted him in navigating university life.
“I still remember when choosing the location for my community service program (KKN-PPM), I was guided and assisted by friends from the UKM Peduli Difabel,” Siham said on Friday (Jul. 5).
Siham feels that the UKM Peduli Difabel community provides a conducive study environment. Despite his challenges, he experiences no significant issues on campus, which is also true for other students with disabilities at UGM.
Siham shares that he is nearing the end of his studies and preparing to become a goat or sheep-fattening entrepreneur.
Dr. Tri Satya Mastuti Widi, the Head of the Animal Science Program, emphasizes that UGM, including Animal Science UGM, is always open to anyone pursuing studies at the university.
Dr. Widi acknowledges that students with Asperger’s autism, like Siham, require additional support in their learning process.
“He can master single words or simple sentences but needs more time to grasp longer explanations of concepts,” said Dr. Widi, also Siham’s academic advisor.
For Siham, the faculty provides support by facilitating a buddy system or mentor.
“Not only Siham but other students with Asperger’s autism also receive special guidance from the program and advisors. Additionally, we have deaf students and students with physical disabilities who have also graduated,” Dr. Widi added.
She also conducts awareness sessions for the campus community to understand the conditions of students with disabilities and provide indirect support. This can be achieved by creating a friendly and supportive campus environment, such as fostering awareness and acceptance of students with special needs.
“The approach to students with disabilities is indeed ‘customized’ based on their needs. Intensive communication with their families and academic advisors is necessary to ensure their physical and mental conditions are always monitored,” she concluded.
Author: Satria