Curtin University Students Innovate for Disability Sector in Accessibility Challenge
Curtin University students have joined forces to address critical challenges in the disability sector, developing innovative solutions during the first-ever Faculty of Humanities Learning Futures Accessibility Challenge. This week-long, intensive program brought together 40 students with leaders from academia, the community, and industry to tackle real-world accessibility problems and drive change.
The challenge featured inspiring presentations from renowned figures, including Paralympian Elizabeth Wright, performance artist Julia Hales, and disability rights advocate Senator Jordon Steele-John. Their insights set the tone for a week of creative problem-solving and collaboration.
Curtin University’s Dean of Learning Futures, Professor Darren Bryant, highlighted the challenge’s focus on using disability solutions as a catalyst for innovation.
“The Learning Futures Accessibility Challenge was designed to inspire students to think outside the box, identifying and addressing real-world issues that impact people with disabilities. It served as a masterclass in navigating complex challenges and encouraged students to use their skills to contribute to a more accessible and inclusive society,” Professor Bryant said.
Dr. Gwyneth Peaty from Curtin’s Faculty of Humanities praised the collaborative spirit that defined the challenge.
“The Accessibility Challenge brought together a diverse range of talents, united by a common goal: to make a positive impact. It’s our collective responsibility to build an inclusive community, and it was inspiring to see how students from different faculties worked together to address the unique needs of people with disabilities,” Dr. Peaty said.
2024 Learning Futures Accessibility Challenge
Throughout the challenge, students worked in teams to develop solutions aligned with the four ‘Pillars for Change’ from the State Disability Strategy 2020-2030:
- Participate and contribute
- Inclusive communities
- Living well
- Rights and equity
The innovative solutions presented included a podcast celebrating diverse stories, the creation of multi-sensory rooms at universities, tools to enhance inclusivity in art galleries and museums, and an accessible housing app.
The Accessibility Challenge also benefited from the support of key industry partners, including Ability WA, the Department of Communities, the Centre for Inclusive Design, Developmental Disability WA, and People with Disability’s Australia.
2024 Accessibility Challenge Gallery
Running from 8 July to 15 July, the Learning Futures Accessibility Challenge marked a significant step forward in fostering innovation and inclusivity at Curtin University. This initiative not only empowered students to address pressing issues in the disability sector but also underscored the university’s commitment to creating a more equitable and accessible future for all.
