The University of Alicante (UA), coordinator of the ANSWER Project, proudly celebrates the International Week of Persons with Disabilities (2–5 December). As the leading institution in this European initiative supporting inclusive higher education in Rwanda, the UA underscores the importance of raising awareness, promoting accessibility, and fostering a truly inclusive academic community.
📚 3 December – International Day of Persons with Disabilities
The week’s central event featured a public and collective reading of excerpts from the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, presided over by Rector Amparo Navarro. The reading began with Article 24, focused on education, highlighting the right of all students to inclusive, equitable learning. Vice-rectorates from Research, Lifelong Learning and Languages, Digital Transformation, Academic Planning, Faculty, and the General Secretariat also participated, alongside the Vice-Rectorate for Students and Employment, organizer of the event. The morning concluded with an Inclusion Photocall, a symbolic moment capturing the university’s commitment to equality and diversity.
🎪 Abilities Fair (2–3 December, Library Arcades)
The UA hosted an interactive fair promoting functional diversity, open from 10:00 to 14:00. Students and staff explored workshops, participatory games, and activities led by organizations such as Fesord Comunitat Valenciana, APSA, Apanah, Fundación Adecco, Fundación Adiem, Cocemfe, ONCE, and many more. The fair allowed attendees to learn about resources, assistive technologies, and inclusive practices that improve accessibility across campus spaces.
🎤 4 December – Disability in First Person
A highlight of the week was the conference “Disability in First Person”, led by Enrique Bernabéu, influencer, writer, and advocate recognized in the 2024 Gesto Awards for his work in disability awareness. Bernabéu engaged in a roundtable discussion with students, sharing personal experiences and inspiring dialogue on accessible and inclusive education.
💙 As the coordinator of the ANSWER Project, the UA demonstrates that inclusive higher education begins at home. By organizing these activities, the university not only celebrates diversity but also reinforces its role as a leader in promoting accessible, participatory, and equitable academic environments, setting an example for partner institutions in Europe and Rwanda.
The International Week of Persons with Disabilities reminds us that true progress in higher education and society requires inclusion, accessibility, and recognition of human diversity. Through initiatives like this, the UA continues to advocate for a world where all students can thrive, regardless of their abilities.
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