Institutionalising the Rights to Inclusive Education at Ateneo de Manila University

Authors

• Diana J. Mendoza, Ateneo de Manila UniversityFollow
• Clarissa Cecilia M. Ramos

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

2023

Abstract

This chapter examines the institutional efforts of Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) to uphold and operationalize the rights to inclusive education for persons with disabilities (PWDs) and students with disabilities (SWDs). Grounded in empirical data collected through student surveys, focus group discussions, interviews with faculty and university administrators, and a comprehensive campus access audit, the study evaluates AdMU's physical infrastructure, academic policies, and student support services. It outlines how university units coordinate to provide reasonable accommodations—spanning classroom adjustments, assistive technologies, health and guidance services, and admissions modifications—guided by national legislation like the Philippine Magna Carta for Disabled Persons (RA 7277) and the Accessibility Law (BP 344), as well as international frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Despite significant strides in fostering a caring campus environment and retrofitting built structures, the study highlights ongoing challenges, including data privacy limitations, low student awareness of disability legislation, and specific physical/architectural barriers. The authors present strategic recommendations at both policy and operational levels to advance universal design and ensure Ateneo's long-term commitment to inclusive higher education.

Recommended Citation

Mendoza, Diana J., and Clarissa Cecilia Mijares-Ramos. "Institutionalising the Rights to Inclusive Education at Ateneo de Manila University." Leaving No One Behind: ASEAN Inclusive Learning Environment, edited by Universiti Malaya / AUN-DPPNet, 2023, pp. 121–149.