Wearing a graduation gown on commencement day is a joy in itself for Lutfi Maarifatun Hasanah. This time, though, her accomplishment is even more special. A visually impaired student in the Islamic Religious Education Study Program at the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training (FITK) at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta, she completed her studies with cum laude honors. She graduated on the third day of the First Period Commencement for Academic Year 2026/2027, on Thursday, November 12, 2026, in the Prof. Amin Abdullah Building at UIN Sunan Kalijaga Yogyakarta.

For Lutfi, this success is more than an academic achievement. It followed a long journey of adapting, building self-confidence, and proving that limited vision is no barrier to success. The support of her family, the acceptance of her friends, and an accessible campus environment were all important parts of that journey.

Lutfi did not choose UIN Sunan Kalijaga without reason. She knew that the campus has fairly good accessibility for people with disabilities, particularly the visually impaired. A comfortable and safe environment made her feel she had the chance to learn and grow.

"Honestly, I felt quite comfortable, safe, and happy studying here," she said.

Lutfi's path through university was not always easy. Having previously attended a special school (SLB), she had to adapt to a mainstream university setting. Her biggest challenge was not simply academic; it was building self-confidence and socializing in a new environment.

At the start of her studies, she admitted, she was not very confident. But those worries gradually faded thanks to the acceptance of her friends on campus. Rather than keeping their distance, her friends were there to accompany and help her when she needed support.

That experience was a turning point in her education. Social support restored Lutfi's confidence and helped her realize that she has the same abilities and the same right to succeed as anyone else.

"My friends didn't shut me out. They accompanied and helped me. From that, I became confident again and realized that I can succeed, and that I have the right to," she said.

Lutfi's experience shows how important accessible facilities and services are in creating an inclusive learning environment. During her time at UIN Sunan Kalijaga, she benefited from the Disability Corner on the first floor of the UIN Sunan Kalijaga Library. The facility offers a range of assistive tools for people with disabilities, from computers to materials in Braille.

The Disability Service Center (PLD) was another important source of support during her studies. The availability of volunteers and a variety of assistive equipment helps students with disabilities receive services suited to their needs.

For Lutfi, these facilities are not just extras on campus. They help students with disabilities carry out their academic activities more comfortably and independently. A supportive environment, services, and open social interaction are essential to providing an inclusive educational experience.

Lutfi's story also shows that an inclusive campus takes more than opening admissions to students with disabilities. It requires an educational ecosystem that ensures every student can participate, receive support, and develop their potential without discrimination.

Behind her success in finishing her studies with cum laude honors, Lutfi named her parents as her greatest source of motivation. Their support and acceptance gave her the strength to keep going until she completed her higher education.

Having her parents present at commencement was a special joy. She expressed her gratitude and pride toward her father and mother, who have always supported her educational journey.

"I'm very proud of my father and mother. They were never embarrassed to have a child like me. They have been my greatest motivation to this day," she said.

After completing her studies, Lutfi has already prepared her next steps. She plans to take a computer course to improve her digital skills, particularly in using Microsoft Word and Excel. For her, these skills are important for preparing to enter the workforce and develop her career.

Lutfi also had a message for children with disabilities who are still hesitant about continuing on to university. She hopes her experience will encourage them to believe that everyone has the opportunity to learn and pursue their dreams.

"Never lose heart. Even if we have limitations, behind those limitations we also have strengths. I hope my friends can be here like I am, and experience graduation at any campus," she said.

She closed her message with the hope that every person with a disability will keep the courage to fight for their future, wherever they are.

"God willing, those places will always give us a bright light even when we are in the dark."

Lutfi's journey is a reminder that higher education should be a place where everyone can grow and achieve, without being limited by physical condition or background. By strengthening accessibility, support services, and a campus culture that welcomes diversity, UIN Sunan Kalijaga continues to work toward an educational environment that offers equal opportunity to all students.

Because an inclusive campus is not only about providing facilities; it is also about making sure every student has the chance to develop their potential, achieve, and build a better future. (humassk)