Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
Disability Accommodation Policy
The Maldives National University > Sustainability 2025 > SDG 10 > Disability Accommodation Policy

The Maldives National University (MNU) is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning, working and social environment in which the rights and dignity of students with disabilities are respected. The Supporting Students with Disability Policy, effective from 12 February 2023, provides a framework for reducing discrimination and promoting equitable access to higher education. The policy is guided by the Disability Act (Law No. 8/2010) of the Maldives, which places a duty on public bodies, including MNU, to eliminate discrimination and promote equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The policy aims to:

  • Promote awareness and positive, informed and non-prejudicial attitudes towards persons with disabilities.
  • Establish procedures for providing reasonable adjustments to meet students’ individual needs.
  • Take practical steps to enable persons with disabilities to seek employment at MNU or enrol as students.
  • Apply appropriate teaching strategies and methods without compromising essential course content or academic requirements.
  • Ensure that campus buildings, facilities and physical environments address the needs of persons with disabilities.
Supporting equitable access and participation

The policy provides for reasonable adjustments to support students with disabilities in admission and enrolment, participation in academic programmes, and access to university facilities and services. Depending on individual needs, these adjustments may include financial assistance, appropriate facilities and services, and modifications to teaching, learning and assessment arrangements.

Examination and academic support

MNU provides for examination adjustments to give students with disabilities equitable opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge and competencies. Possible arrangements include additional time, assistive technology, separate examination rooms, readers or scribes, ergonomic chairs, alternative examination formats and alternative assessments, where appropriate. These adjustments must maintain essential academic and programme requirements.

Implementation and institutional responsibilities

The policy applies to all MNU students and staff, with implementation overseen by the Vice-Chancellor. Faculties, course coordinators, lecturers, Student Support Services, Student Administrative Services, the Examinations Department and Facilities Management have responsibilities for identifying support needs, coordinating adjustments, maintaining relevant records and ensuring appropriate facilities and services. The policy also provides for staff training to strengthen the University’s capacity to support students with disabilities.

Through these measures, MNU seeks to reduce barriers to higher education, promote equitable participation and foster an inclusive university environment. The policy contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities by advancing equal opportunities and participation for students with disabilities.

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