Progress in Motion: RWTH’s Path to Becoming a “University for All”
Positive Evaluation After Three Years of the “Inclusion Action Plan – RWTH Aachen University (2021-2026)”
Becoming a university for all is RWTH’s declared goal, aimed at removing barriers that hinder employees and students in their work and studies. This effort is not only about fostering equal opportunities and mutual appreciation but also about enriching perspectives and knowledge across the university.
Since 2021, RWTH has been following a roadmap – the Inclusion Action Plan – developed collaboratively by experts in the Task Force Inclusion. Key stakeholders, such as the Representative Body of Severely Disabled Employees and the Inclusive Education Officers, play an active role in this process and benefit from the enhanced support structures now in place.
“Achieving inclusion and accessibility are key goals for us at RWTH. Since adopting the Inclusion Action Plan, we’ve embedded these priorities in all of our strategic documents.”
The Inclusion Action Plan – RWTH Aachen University (2021–2026) encompasses a range of measures to ensure barrier-free participation for students and employees. An interim evaluation shows that more than half of the specific measures have already been implemented. Notable progress has been made in enhancing the quality and accessibility of advisory services, developing practical handouts, and increasing awareness through various events. However, individuals with limited mobility still encounter physical barriers in certain areas. To address these temporarily, aids like ramps and information on alternative access routes are in place.
Inclusion & Accessibility Portal: Orientation and Resources
The Portal for Inclusion & Accessibility serves as a central platform for information, orientation, and an overview of the University’s wide-ranging services and support for inclusion. It highlights our extensive network and the success of mainstreaming efforts across key areas: academics, employment and professional development, campus accessibility, accessible IT, teaching and learning, and inclusion research. Students and staff can also use the Portal to report digital, structural, or other barriers they encounter.
Implementation Through Training, Advising, Networking, and Information
Many employees are already taking advantage of training opportunities and online resources. Services for students have been expanded and further professionalized, while existing structural barriers on campus are being gradually removed. Essential information for individuals with limited mobility – such as accessible entrances, elevators, restrooms, and parking locations – is available in the Portal’s Accessible Campus” section.
Accessibility in IT and teaching has also seen significant improvement: training sessions, handouts, and dedicated contacts are now available to support accessible design of documents, templates, and websites. These enhancements are especially beneficial for visually impaired individuals.
“In the Task Force Inclusion, five specialized teams focus on implementing measures across different areas. The Inclusion, Gender and Diversity Management Staff Unit (IGaD) provides ongoing support for these initiatives. University leadership fully backs these efforts by supplying personnel and drawing on the concentrated expertise available.”
– Author: Katrin Feldmann