At the University of the Free State (UFS), we are deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, accessible, and empowering environment for persons with disabilities. This commitment is upheld through two key structures, each with a distinct but complementary mandate in support and advocacy:

DISABILITY RIGHTS UNIT

 

 The disability rights unit is housed within the Faculty of Law, the Disability Rights Unit focuses on advancing the rights, dignity, and legal protection of persons with disabilities in South Africa and across the African continent. Through research, advocacy, legal education, and policy engagement, the Unit champions the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the African Disability Protocol. It plays a leading role in promoting rights-based transformation in law and society.
 

CENTRE FOR UNIVERSAL ACCESS AND DISABILITY SUPPORT (CUADS)

 

CUADS operates within the Division of Student Affairs and provides support to students with disabilities within the university, playing a very important role in their lives. Students with disabilities are assisted in adjusting to the demands of academic life in various ways, and many specialised services are on offer. These support services include providing advice and facilitating academic accommodations, in collaborative partnerships with students’university lecturers, departments and faculties.