Employee needs are the focus of this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
On December 3, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the topics of inclusion and life with disabilities will take centerstage at Goethe University Frankfurt, which is inviting to a day of debate about the challenges and opportunities associated with disabilities in academic and professional settings. Part of the discussions will also focus on newer concepts and definitions of disability and inclusion.
What Does “Disability” Mean?
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines disability as a complex phenomenon resulting from the interaction between a person’s health condition and their environment. This interaction can make it more difficult to perform certain activities and to participate equally in social life. Contrary to the earlier medical model, this modern understanding emphasizes that it’s not just the individual but also barriers in the environment that can be disabling. The concept of “disability” is thus increasingly considered in the context of societal conditions. “It’s no longer just about whether a person is perceived as ‘disabled’ in the traditional sense, for example, because he or she is using a wheelchair, but also about how structural and infrastructural circumstances restrict participation in life,” explains Christina Rahn, advisor for students with disabilities at Goethe University and deputy inclusion officer for students with special needs. Together with her colleagues Christoph Trüper and Michaela Schneider-Wettstein, Rahn is responsible for planning the Day of Persons with Disabilities at Goethe University. Some 16% of students live with a disability, she says, adding that, “Many of these disabilities are not physical in nature but involve psychological or chronic physical conditions or neurodivergent individuals. Disabilities are much more complex than popular thought would have us believe.”
Growing Awareness
Christoph Trüper, deputy inclusion officer at Goethe University Frankfurt, emphasizes that the number of people with disabilities increases with age – and that students in early adulthood are particularly affected by psychological conditions. December 3 is intended not only as a day of reflection but also as an opportunity to raise awareness within the university and society. In this respect, a transformation can also be observed at Goethe University: Whereas a few years ago students often disclosed their disabilities late – often only after difficulties had already resulted in serious consequences – trust in advisory services continues to grow, and many students now approach the university before commencing their studies to inquire about support options.
As an institution, the university has a responsibility to create an inclusive learning environment while simultaneously raising awareness across society. Michaela Schneider-Wettstein, inclusion officer at the Office for Equal Opportunities, advocates for broader inclusion and less stigmatization. “The university is a place where the leaders of tomorrow are shaped,” she explains, adding that, “These future leaders must learn how important it is to not only preach inclusion but also practice it.” She also points out the significant challenges associated with the high demands placed on academic careers: “The academic culture is associated with a high degree of personal autonomy, independence, and self-efficacy – this image doesn’t easily accommodate a need for support. It is definitely worthwhile considering whether and how a shift in awareness is possible.”
Inclusion as a Collective Responsibility
Inclusion should not be reduced to “disability.” It’s about creating a society that recognizes and accommodates various needs – whether it’s students with impairments, international guests, or employees with family obligations. A modern university, according to the vision of Trüper, Rahn, and Schneider-Wettstein, could proactively integrate these diverse needs into its structures and concepts from the outset, rather than implementing solutions retroactively.
A Full Day of Engaging and Inspiring Discussion
Unlike last year, when the Day of Disability was organized on short notice, this year will feature a full day with a diverse program. Lectures, a panel with individuals directly affected, and art activities will address various types of impairments and foster dialogue between the university and society. The role of leadership and its importance in realizing inclusion will also be highlighted. “Our focus this year is on employee needs,” explains Christina Rahn. “Having been assured that the Day of Disability will become a regular event, we can tailor next year’s program to a different target group.” She adds that the number of Goethe University employees with severe disabilities is still too low. “Even though there are plenty of opportunities to increase this percentage, we are falling short of the required quota,” Rahn underscores.
Looking Ahead to the University of the Future
The vision for the university of the future is one that not only imparts knowledge but also breaks down barriers – both physical and cultural. The university could serve as a role model, raising awareness about impairments while adopting flexible approaches to meet the varied needs of students and employees. “This could include rethinking exam systems and conference formats to ensure barrier-free participation,” says Christoph Trüper. The Day of Disability at Goethe University is intended to be more than just an event – it’s a call to broaden the understanding of disability and to advance the practice of inclusion. True inclusion means that all people – regardless of any impairments – have equal opportunities to participate and contribute. This vision, as emphasized by Christina Rahn, Michaela Schneider-Wettstein, and Christoph Trüper, should be embedded not only on campus but throughout society as a whole.
The University’s Chief Administrative and Financial Officer invites you to join the International Day of Persons with Disabilities at Goethe University Frankfurt
The focus of the day will be on concrete examples from the daily work experiences of individuals with health impairments or disabilities, both within and outside Goethe University. Discussions will explore the conditions necessary for creating an inclusive workplace. Additionally, participants can look forward to a diverse workshop program featuring sports activities, interactive demonstrations of assistive devices, expert opinions on selected types of health impairments, and much more.
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