FORMAPI and AIL UNAIR Collaboration: Concrete Steps Towards an Inclusive Campus in Indonesia
AIL News - Surabaya, November 23, 2024 – Airlangga University (UNAIR) hosted the FORMAPI X Airlangga Inclusive Learning (AIL) Comparative Study, which was attended by a FORMAPI delegation from Brawijaya University consisting of around 50 students. This event aimed to strengthen insight and collaboration related to the development of inclusive education in higher education.
The event began at 8:45 a.m. with an opening by the MC, followed by the singing of the Indonesian national anthem. The first speech was delivered by the Chair of FORMAPI, followed by the Chair of the Comparative Study, and the Chair of AIL, Dr. Fitri Mutia, A.KS., M.Si., who explained the role and objectives of AIL as a center for inclusive education services at UNAIR. In her presentation, she explained the development of AIL since 2016, which now has various assistance programs for students with special needs (MBK).
Dr. Pramesti added, “AIL not only provides assistance services, but also prepares an inclusive ecosystem through volunteer training, service guideline development, and assistive technology support. We are committed to making UNAIR an inclusive campus that is adaptive to the needs of all academics.”
Photo: FORMAPI participants enthusiastically listen to the presentation by Pramesti Pradna Paramita, Medpsych, Ph.D., Psychologist, Coordinator of Research and Development at AIL UNAIR.
Participants were also introduced to the profiles of Airlangga Inclusive Learning and FORMAPI, which highlighted their contributions and flagship programs in supporting inclusive education. AIL UNAIR, for example, has initiated volunteer training programs, developed guidelines for inclusive education services, and procured assistive technology such as NVDA devices for visually impaired students.
In addition to the presentations, the Sharing and Caring session was an important moment, where participants discussed directly with AIL representatives the challenges and solutions in creating an inclusive campus environment. “Collaborations like this provide a great opportunity for universities to learn from each other's experiences,” said one participant.
The event concluded with the presentation of souvenirs by both institutions, marking their shared commitment to advancing inclusive education. The delegation was then invited on a tour of the UNAIR campus to see firsthand the facilities that support the needs of students with special needs.
Photo: The moment of exchange of souvenirs between FORMAPI and AIL at Airlangga University.
This activity reflects the concrete steps taken by higher education institutions in Indonesia to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the area of inclusive and equitable education for all.
Author: Rozi
Editor: Rozi
