Policy and Implementation on Equality and Accessibility Support for Persons with Disabilities at Chulalongkorn University
Chulalongkorn University recognizes the importance of fostering an inclusive and equitable learning environment for everyone, particularly for individuals with disabilities or special needs. The University has established clear policies and measures to ensure accessibility and support, enabling all members of the Chulalongkorn community to live, learn, and work to their fullest potential.
These initiatives encompass a wide range of actions, including psychosocial counselling and support services, improvements to campus facilities and accessibility, specialized services for persons with disabilities, and programs that promote educational and employment opportunities. In addition, the University has implemented a “Reasonable Accommodation Policy” with continuous budgetary support, aligning with its mission to promote equality, diversity, and non-discrimination throughout the institution.
Comprehensive Support System for Students with Disabilities
The CU Student Corner, located at Sala Phra Kiao (opposite Chulalongkorn University Book Center), serves as the central office providing academic, social, and psychological support for students with disabilities. Operated under the Division of Student Affairs and Scholarships, CU Student Corner offers a holistic range of services — from personal counselling and learning assistance to life-skills development and career preparation — ensuring that students with disabilities are fully supported throughout their academic journey.
[ https://www.sa.chula.ac.th/en/ ]
[ https://www.sa.chula.ac.th/service/cu-student-corner-%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%94%E0%B8%B9%E0%B9%81%E0%B8%A5%E0%B9%81%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%B0%E0%B9%83%E0%B8%AB%E0%B9%89%E0%B8%9A%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%B4%E0%B8%81%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%A3%E0%B9%81/ ]
Educational Grants for Students with Disabilities
In collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Chulalongkorn University facilitates access to the Government Educational Support Program for Students with Disabilities at the undergraduate level. Students can apply through CU Student Corner to receive grants that help reduce financial barriers to education. Participation in the program is voluntary and based on eligibility criteria defined by national regulations, ensuring fairness and transparency in allocation.
Employment of Persons with Disabilities
At the staff level, the Office of Human Resources Management, Chulalongkorn University actively promotes inclusive employment practices under the principles of equality, human rights, and non-discrimination. The University implements a Employment Project for Persons with Disabilities to provide fair job opportunities for persons with disabilities. Many departments across the campus have successfully employed capable staff with disabilities, reflecting the University’s commitment to equal and meaningful employment for all.
[ https://www.hrm.chula.ac.th/th/home/disabilities-potential ]
Provision of Reasonable Accommodation and Accessible Facilities for Persons with Disabilities
Chulalongkorn University prioritizes the creation of inclusive and accessible environments through the provision of Reasonable Accommodation for persons with disabilities — including students, staff, and visitors — to ensure equal opportunity and convenience in daily university life.
The University has established both policies and practical measures to improve its physical infrastructure and campus environment, with a focus on Universal Design principles and in compliance with the Promotion and Development of the Quality of Life of Persons with Disabilities Act, B.E. 2550 (2007), Section 37, and the Ministerial Regulation on Accessibility Facilities for Persons with Disabilities and the Elderly, B.E. 2548 (2005).
Key initiatives include:
- Design and construction of accessible buildings with ramps for wheelchairs, tactile paving for the visually impaired, and Braille signage.
- Regular maintenance of walkways across the campus to ensure smooth, unobstructed, and safe pedestrian routes.
- Adjustment of ramp sizes and gradients connecting main roads and footpaths to ensure proper accessibility for wheelchair users.
The University’s infrastructure development is guided by the concept of “Universal Design for All”, ensuring that facilities are inclusive and usable by everyone, regardless of physical condition. [ http://www.sustainability.chula.ac.th/th/report/3373/ ]
In addition, annual budgets are allocated through related university funds and offices to sustain and improve accessibility initiatives, including:
- The Office of Physical Resources Management, responsible for campus buildings, spaces, and facilities.
- The Office of Human Resource Management, responsible for staff welfare and accessibility in the workplace.
- The Office of Student Affairs, responsible for student development and inclusive support services.
These coordinated efforts help enhance physical access, mobility, and participation for persons with disabilities throughout the university community, fostering an environment of equality, respect, and inclusion.
A notable example is the Chamchuri 5 Building, which was renovated to improve accessibility and received an honorable mention as an “Accessible Building for Persons with Disabilities 2020” by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The university continues to improve its infrastructure to accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive academic and professional environment.
Accessible Student Dormitories
Chulalongkorn University offers accessible dormitories for students with disabilities, with features including:
- Spacious layouts and custom-designed furniture for wheelchair users
- Accessible restrooms with grab bars and turning space
- Step-free entryways and secure, easy-to-use door systems.
- Detailed layouts to ensure convenient use of space
These accommodations uphold the university’s commitment to equity, enabling students to live with dignity and independence.
[ https://rcuchula.com/rcu_web/index.php/aboutus/room-for-disable ]
Inclusive Housing for University Staff
Chulanives, the staff dormitory, has been upgraded to meet the latest Building Control Act requirements for safety and accessibility, including:
- Enhanced fire safety and emergency exits
- Renovations in older buildings for better accessibility: ramps, wider paths, step-free entryways, and accessible restrooms
These enhancements are part of the university’s strategy to eliminate barriers and promote inclusion for all personnel. [ https://www.hrm.chula.ac.th/th/home/disabilities-potential ]
Projects and Activities Promoting Equal Access and Support Services for Persons with Disabilities
In addition to improving physical accessibility, Chulalongkorn University consistently implements projects, activities, and support services that promote opportunity, inclusion, and access for persons with disabilities. These initiatives are carried out annually and include academic and adaptive learning consultations from advisors and senior students, the provision and lending of assistive learning devices such as hearing aids, Braille readers, and assistive software, as well as various inclusive engagement activities. Examples include:
Supporting Persons with Disabilities through the “Tua Im Jai (ตู้อิ่มใจ)” Vending Machine Project
Chulalongkorn University upholds the principles of human rights, equality, and diversity, particularly in supporting individuals with physical disabilities. The University promotes employment opportunities for persons with disabilities in alignment with its Human Resource Equality Policy.
Through collaboration between the Office of Physical Systems Administration, the Office of Human Resource Management, and the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities under the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the University provides designated spaces on campus for “Tua Im Jai (ตู้อิ่มใจ)” vending machines. These machines offer a variety of consumable goods — such as instant noodles, snacks, and beverages — without charging rent or utility fees. The net proceeds from these vending machines are donated monthly to persons with disabilities, helping to promote sustainable income generation and social inclusion.
[ https://shorturl.asia/D8unN ]
Siam Square Walking Street For All
The Office of Property Management, Chulalongkorn University (PMCU), in collaboration with volunteer partners for special needs, the Five For All Foundation, and the National Council on Social Welfare of Thailand, organized the “Siam Square Walking Street for All” event from November 2–3, 2024, at Siam Square Walking Street.
The event aimed to build an inclusive and equitable society by providing a platform for persons with disabilities to showcase their talents and abilities through various performances such as fashion shows, singing, music, and dance. It also featured food, drinks, handmade products, crafts, and artworks (Art Able) created by persons with disabilities. Participants and visitors were encouraged to dress in “Pinky of Special” — a theme color representing joy and positivity among people with special needs.
The activity sought to empower persons with disabilities, helping them develop self-confidence, gain social recognition, and create income opportunities, while inspiring others to embrace diversity.
“Siam Square,” redesigned under the Universal Design concept, has become a public space of opportunity for everyone — accessible to all genders, ages, and physical conditions — promoting a truly walkable and inclusive city.
[ https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/202824/ ]
[ https://www.chula.ac.th/news/196497/ ]
Art Project for Children with Down Syndrome through Photography
The Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University organized an Art Project for Children with Down Syndrome, using photography as a medium for self-expression and creative participation. The project encouraged children to capture meaningful moments, which were later transformed into contemporary art pieces in the form of photographic collage art, through collaboration between Fine and Applied Arts students, parents, and mentors.
The activity, conducted in partnership with the Five For All Foundation and the Joe Louis Traditional Thai Puppet Theatre, took place on May 7, 2025. Participants — children with special needs — also learned about Thai performing arts and puppet manipulation, blending traditional performance art with photography. The project inspired self-esteem, cultural appreciation, and social engagement, reflecting the Faculty’s commitment to giving back to society through art and creativity.
By
- Office of Student Affairs, Chulalongkorn University
- Office of Human Resources Management, Chulalongkorn University
- Office of Physical Resources Management, Chulalongkorn University
- Office of Property Management
- Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts, Chulalongkorn University
Related SDGs
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