A small desk is placed in front of a lecture seat. This specially designed desk and chair were intentionally prepared to help students with physical disabilities write lecture notes or fill out exam answer sheets using their toes.
The desk, which stands about as high as an adult’s calf, symbolizes care, innovation, and a concrete step by the Faculty of Biology at Universitas Gadjah Mada (Biology UGM) in supporting the university’s commitment to inclusive education.
The Dean of Biology UGM, Professor Budi Daryono, explained that this desk for students with disabilities emerged from a real need in the field and reflects how the university responds to its students’ diverse abilities.
The ergonomically considered desk is intended to assist students who have difficulty writing with their hands.
“This desk is designed so that learning activities can be carried out comfortably and the desk can be moved easily,” said Professor Daryono on Monday (Apr. 14).
For students with disabilities, Professor Daryono added, the presence of specially designed desks and chairs not only eases technical difficulties but also provides a sense of being valued, recognized, and empowered within the educational process.
The desk is not a quick fix but part of a long-term strategy to build an adaptive and inclusive higher education system.
He acknowledged that this lecture desk is just one part of Biology UGM’s broader efforts to create a truly inclusive educational system.
Since 2022, the faculty has actively facilitated students with disabilities in academic activities such as lectures, practicums, and assessments, including midterm and final exams.
In addition, the faculty provides comprehensive support services through peer counseling, faculty counseling, and psychologists ready to offer emotional and academic support.
These initiatives are grounded in mutual support and respect for every individual’s potential.
Putri Diah Syafitri, a member of the UGM Student Disability Community Unit, appreciated the provision of desks for students with disabilities.
“This innovative disability-friendly desk from the Faculty of Biology is beneficial for our friends with disabilities. I hope other faculties will also adopt this,” she said.
Professor Daryono hopes that this initiative can inspire other educational institutions to participate in creating a truly disability-friendly campus environment.
After all, higher education should be a space where all students, regardless of background or needs, can grow equally.
Author: Bolivia Rahmawati
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Photograph: Biology UGM