Entering university life brings different challenges for every student. For students with disabilities, the adjustment process also involves access to learning materials, communication, mobility, and a supportive social environment. Inclusivity, therefore, cannot be achieved simply by opening the door to admission; it must be present at every stage of a student's academic journey.

That spirit colored the implementation of Learning Orientation (SOSPEM) at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, held Wednesday–Thursday (August 26–27, 2026). The program, which serves as a bridge from high school to university life, was conducted in classroom sessions at each faculty, with two facilitators accompanying each class.

Through its Disability Services Center (PLD), under the Institute for Research and Community Service (LPPM), UIN Sunan Kalijaga provided accompaniment to ensure that students with disabilities could participate in the full range of SOSPEM activities accessibly. This support was provided from the moment students entered the classroom until the activities concluded, tailored to each participant's needs.

Blind students and students with mobility impairments, for example, received assistance in accessing activity venues. Meanwhile, Deaf students were accompanied by volunteers who served as notetakers and, when needed, helped facilitate communication using sign language. Support was also extended to autistic students, students with ADHD, and students with a range of other needs.

This support involved students who joined as PLD volunteers. Before taking on their duties, they received training, including sign language instruction, so they could provide appropriate assistance while still respecting the choices and independence of students with disabilities.

PLD Coordinator at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, Dr. Asep Jahidin, explained that the accompaniment provided during SOSPEM is grounded in a spirit of respect, protection, and fulfillment of the rights of persons with disabilities in higher education as full members of the citizenry.

“UIN Sunan Kalijaga continues to strive to provide the best support to nurture and develop an inclusive ecosystem through various services, one of which is accompanying students with disabilities throughout SOSPEM,” he said.

One PLD volunteer, Muhamad Rizkana Agnia Adnin, initially signed up as a companion for Deaf students. Now, in carrying out his role as a volunteer, he also accompanies students with disabilities with a variety of needs. His interest in volunteering grew after witnessing PLD's role in building an inclusive campus environment.

“I was truly amazed by PLD's presence because it shows UIN Sunan Kalijaga's genuine commitment to building an inclusive environment. That's why I wanted to learn to communicate, get to know my Deaf friends more closely, and accompany them,” he said.

The spirit of volunteerism was also shown by Nia, a Deaf student in the Communication Studies program at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, who is currently in her fifth semester. Nia is not merely a recipient of services but has also taken on a role as a PLD volunteer herself.

Drawing on her interest and skills in media and visual editing, Nia helps with content production and design. During the implementation of SOSPEM, she supported the event's media needs with her design and visual editing skills.

“I'm glad I could contribute as a PLD volunteer. Through my skills in media and design, I wanted to help with the activities while also showing that Deaf students also have space to create and take on roles within the campus environment,” Nia said through sign language.

Nia's involvement shows that an inclusive ecosystem is built through equal relationships. Students with disabilities receive support suited to their needs while also having space to contribute, create, and accompany their fellow students.

The accompaniment provided during SOSPEM is one manifestation that access to education is not merely about the opportunity to be admitted to a university. Access also means ensuring that every student can be present, participate in learning, develop their potential, and take on roles with dignity in campus life.

At UIN Sunan Kalijaga, inclusivity continues to be cultivated as a living culture in classrooms, student activities, and the everyday interactions of the entire campus community. (humassk)