An IT Assistant at the University of Ghana Information Technology Directorate (UGITD), Joseph Gmakawoma, has asserted that discrimination against persons with disabilities at the University stems more from institutional structures than from individuals within the community.
Speaking on Campus Exclusive on Radio Univers on Monday, October 20, Mr. Gmakawoma highlighted that while both new and existing facilities may appear inclusive, a critical lack of attention to important details renders them effectively inaccessible to students with special needs.
He cited the newly constructed hotspot centres and the Balme Library as prime examples of this systemic failure.
On the new hotspot centre, he pointed out a fundamental design flaw, saying, “To get to it, there’s an open gutter that a wheelchair can’t cross, and it’s dangerous for visually impaired people. If they really want it to be accessible, they need to cover that gutter.”
Similarly, he said that despite visible attempts at improvement, the Balme Library remains a challenge.
“It’s the same thing with the Balme Library. They finally put in ramps, but you still can’t actually use them to get into the building near the fountain — you still can’t climb up there,” he explained.
Mr. Gmakawoma argued that the University’s failure lies in overlooking the specific details that create major obstacles for students with disabilities. He noted that the University is trying to “look inclusive” but fails to “pay attention to the small details. Those tiny details are actually the big obstacles we’ve been complaining about this whole time.”
To promote genuine inclusivity, he emphasised that accessibility must extend to every campus space, including housing and learning facilities.
He said: “If the University of Ghana is serious about inclusivity, they need to go beyond just putting ramps at the main entrance of the traditional halls. Once inside, students must be able to branch off to any assigned block or room without needing help. And it’s not just the halls—they need to make the reading rooms and all facilities fully accessible too.”
Mr. Gmakawoma also extended his call beyond the University, urging the Government to enforce accessibility standards across all educational institutions, both public and private.
He stressed that this is essential to ensure people with disabilities can “go anywhere without needing someone to take your message or deliver it for you. Beyond just free education, people need full access to educational facilities so they can truly compete with their able-bodied colleagues.”
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Story by Wilhemina Dushie | univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Deborah Owusu
