Historical Background

The University of Dar es Salaam Centre for Disability Services (UDSM-CDS) was established in November 2022, in accordance with section 4.1.3 (i) of the University of Dar es Salaam Policy on Disability and Special Educational Needs of 2022. Although UDSM-CDS is a new name, it has been actively operating since 1978 as the Special Education Needs Unit (SENU), which was subsequently upgraded to a standalone centre for disability services. The primary objective of UDSM-CDS is to provide appropriate support services to both staff and students with various disabilities, thereby promoting inclusivity and equal participation within the learning and working environment.

The Centre extends support to all staff and students with special needs, including those with hearing and visual impairment, physical impairment, albinism, and other chronic health conditions. It also caters to students facing temporary medical conditions or injuries that may require accommodations. UDSM-CDS also actively engages in consultations with staff and students who demonstrate characteristics associated with specific disabilities.

Sections and Support Services under UDSM-CDS

Hearing Impairment Section

This section is responsible for assessing the disability status of staff and students reported to have hearing impairment. Additionally, the section coordinates the orientation and accommodation of students with hearing impairment. It further oversees the provision of academic and other support services, such as sign language interpretation for staff and students with hearing impairments, as well as the provision of note-takers and assistive devices for students in need. The section also conducts sign language training within and beyond the UDSM community.

Visual Impairment Section

The visual impairment section assesses the disability status of staff and students reported to have visual impairment, and provides orientation and accommodation for students with low vision, total blindness, and albinism. It offers academic and other support services, including the preparation of teaching and learning materials, and accessible format examinations. The section also provides training on the use of assistive technology/devices for staff and students with visual impairment and albinism. Moreover, personal assistants (readers or human guides) are provided to staff and students with visual impairment.

Physical Impairment Section

This section coordinates the assessment of disability and health status for students and staff reported to have physical impairment and/or chronic health conditions.