University of the Witwatersrand: Disability Rights Unit

The Wits Disability Rights Unit presents a five-part seminar series titled “Beyond the Ramp: Disability, Inclusion, and Innovations at Wits”, exploring disability inclusion through access, dignity, empowerment, and innovation — bringing together students, staff, and partners to build a more inclusive campus and society.

Session 1: Access Granted – Rethinking Accessibility Beyond the Ramp
This session challenges traditional ideas of accessibility, expanding the conversation from ramps and infrastructure to attitudes, policy, and belonging. It calls on the Wits community to rethink what it means to create a campus where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.

Session 1 Keynote Speaker: Mr Elash Mistry
Elash is a Wits alumnus and trailblazer in the South African financial sector - in 2017, he became the first totally blind actuary in South Africa. A Fellow actuary with over two decades of experience across major life insurers and the FSCA, Elash currently serves as Business Development Actuary at Hannover Re South Africa. His journey - from the Arthur Blaxall School for the Blind to Wits, where the Disability Rights Unit played a pivotal role in his success - has opened up doors for others and contributed to the greater cause of inclusion. Passionate about coding, entrepreneurship, and self-realisation, Elash believes that true inclusion is not a bureaucratic checkbox, but a fundamental human need to belong. He dedicates himself to helping others discover their unique purpose and live a more fulfilled life.

Session 1 Keynote Title: The Power of Inclusive Education: Stories, Challenges, and the Road Ahead.

Panel Discussion: Following the keynote, join Wits staff, alumni, students, and external guests - disability inclusion experts in their own right – exploring accessibility, mental health & invisible disabilities, and technology for inclusion.

Date: 25 June 2026
Time: 13:00 – 14:30
Venue: Microsoft Teams
Register here: https://forms.office.com/r/zZqyCBHcxn

Today, on Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD), we join the world in recognising the importance of accessibility, inclusion, and equal access for all. 🌍♿

At the Disability Rights Unit (DRU), we remain committed to creating an environment where every student is seen, heard, supported, and empowered. Accessibility is not a privilege. It is a right.

This day reminds us that true inclusion happens when spaces, opportunities, technology, and education are accessible to everyone, regardless of disability.

Let us continue to learn, advocate, and work together towards a more inclusive and accessible future for all. 💙

📚✨ To all our amazing students,
As you prepare for your June exams, remember that your hard work, perseverance, and dedication have brought you this far. Believe in yourself, stay focused, and give it your very best.

Challenges are opportunities in disguise, and this is your moment to shine. We are incredibly proud of you and believe in your potential. No matter the outcome, your effort and determination already make you a success.

You’ve got this! 💙💛
Message from Dr Leila Abdool Gafoor
Head of Department
Disability Rights Unit
“Nothing will work unless you do.” – Maya Angelou

📚 EXAM BOOT CAMP

Exams are almost here, and we know the pressure can feel overwhelming. You do not have to go through it alone.

Join the Exam Boot Camp and let’s talk about managing stress, staying grounded, and getting through exam season together.

🗓 21 May 2026
⏰ 19:00

Hosted by Wits University in collaboration with CCDU and the Wits Student Crisis Line.

📞 Toll-free support available 24/7: 0800 111 331

Update: Student Support Sessions – Guest Speaker Postponement

We regret to inform you that our guest speaker from The Spectrum Center, scheduled for 6 May, is unfortunately no longer able to attend and the session has been postponed.

We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and appreciate your understanding.

The Student Support Sessions will continue as scheduled. We will share updates on the rescheduled guest session in due course.

For any enquiries, please contact: [email protected]

Thank you for your continued support.

You’re invited to our Student Support Sessions hosted by the Disability Rights Unit (DRU).
Join us for informal discussions on Neurodiversity & Exams.
✨ Special Guest Speaker: The Spectrum Center
🗓 6 May
⏰ 13:15 – 14:15
📍 In-person (DRU Boardroom):
29 April & 6 May
⏰ 13:15 – 14:00
💻 Online:
8 May
⏰ 13:15 – 14:00
📧 [email protected]
Come through, connect, and be part of the conversation.

You’re invited to our Student Support Sessions hosted by the Disability Rights Unit (DRU).

Join us for informal discussions on Neurodiversity & Exams.

📍 In-person: DRU Boardroom
🗓 29 April & 6 May
⏰ 13:15 – 14:00

💻 Online:
🗓 8 May
⏰ 13:15 – 14:00

For more information: [email protected]

A little delayed, but the celebration was too good not to share 🎉🏉

DRU proudly joined the FNB Varsity Shield Victory Parade in support of our Wits rugby champions. 💙💛

When industry meets inclusion. Tiger Brands and the Disability Rights Unit in discussion on future collaboration.

You’re invited to our Student Support Sessions.

Join us for informal discussions focused on exam preparation and success.

📅 22 & 29 April | 6 & 13 May
🕒 13:15 – 14:00
📍 DRU Boardroom (In-person)

💻 8 May
🕒 13:15 – 14:00
🌐 Online

For more information: [email protected]

Let’s prepare, connect, and succeed together.