Nazarbayev University strives to create an environment in which every student and staff member can participate fully in academic, professional and social life regardless of physical, sensory or other individual characteristics.
Accessibility work covers campus infrastructure, educational support, accommodation, medical support, assistive devices, and continuous improvement of the University environment.
Accessible Campus Environment
The University consistently works to improve the physical accessibility of buildings and services. The Health and Well-being Department, together with relevant University units, conducts regular campus accessibility inspections covering:
- routes and building entrances;
- ramps, handrails and navigation elements;
- classrooms and public spaces;
- sanitary facilities;
- food service and service areas;
- student residence halls;
- safety and evacuation arrangements.
Based on inspection results, recommendations are developed and necessary improvements are initiated.
Special Learning Needs Committee (SLNC)
Students who require special learning conditions due to a disability or other special needs may request support from the Special Learning Needs Committee (SLNC).
Depending on individual needs, possible accommodations may include:
- additional time for examinations, tests and other forms of assessment;
- adapted or alternative assessment arrangements;
- accessible or alternative formats of learning materials;
- changes to classroom seating or learning conditions;
- use of assistive technologies and specialized equipment;
- other individualized academic accommodations.
For more detailed information, please visit:
Accommodation
Nazarbayev University provides accessible and specially adapted accommodation options for students with disabilities and accessibility needs.
A specially equipped room is available in Student Residence Block 23 (D6) for students who require additional accessibility features. The room provides sufficient space for movement, convenient access to necessary facilities, and conditions that support greater independence in daily life. Sanitary facilities are adapted in accordance with accessibility requirements to support safe and convenient use by students with mobility limitations and other accessibility needs.
Individual needs are taken into account when arranging accommodation in order to support accessibility, safety, dignity, comfort and independent living.
Accommodation in student residence halls is provided in accordance with the University’s established rates and accommodation fees.
Financial Support
Nazarbayev University provides additional financial and social support to students from socially vulnerable categories, including students with disabilities.
Depending on their status and applicable rules, support may include assistance with residence hall accommodation costs, as well as free or subsidized meals.
To receive support, students must submit the required supporting documents to the Department of Student Affairs in accordance with established University procedures.
Mentoring Support
Nazarbayev University operates the SENU Mentoring system, through which students can receive individualized guidance and support on academic, social and personal matters.
A mentor can help a student adapt to the University environment, navigate available services and support options, identify the appropriate University unit for a particular issue, and, where necessary, support further communication with relevant University services.
For students with disabilities and special learning needs, such guidance can be particularly helpful when addressing issues related to accessibility, learning, accommodation, social adaptation or obtaining additional support.
Workplace Accommodations
Faculty and staff with disabilities or accessibility needs may request reasonable workplace accommodations under the relevant University procedures. Depending on individual needs and the nature of the work, such measures may include adapting the workplace or workstation, providing accessible equipment or technologies, making changes to the working environment, and other reasonable measures.
Assistive Devices and Technologies
Nazarbayev University provides assistive technologies and accessible learning resources to support students with different accessibility needs and promote their independent participation in academic life.
The dedicated Assistive Technology Room at the NU Library provides specialized equipment and individualized support for users with visual, hearing and mobility impairments and other accessibility needs.
Available resources include:
- screen access and text-to-speech technologies;
- screen magnification tools;
- Braille display and Braille printing equipment;
- technologies for producing tactile materials;
- reading and text-conversion devices;
- accessible keyboards and alternative input devices;
- assistive systems to improve hearing access;
- adjustable and accessible workstations.
Students can receive individualized assistance in accessing learning materials, digital resources and specialized equipment according to their needs.
For temporary or ongoing mobility support on campus, certain assistive devices, including wheelchairs, are available. For assistance, please contact the Health and Well-being Department or the University Health Center.
How to Report an Accessibility Issue
If you encounter a physical barrier on campus, malfunctioning accessibility equipment, or another issue that limits access to University infrastructure or services, you can report it to the Health and Well-being Department at hwd@nu.edu.kz.
The information received helps identify problem areas and include them in further work to improve campus accessibility.
Nazarbayev University’s approach to developing an accessible and inclusive environment is based on the Concept for Creating Conditions for Persons with Disabilities and Special Needs, approved by the Managing Council on 15 October 2019.
The Concept defines the University’s strategic directions for creating an environment that takes into account the diverse needs of members of the community. It provides a foundation for the systematic development of accessible infrastructure and services, increased awareness, improved safety conditions, and continued implementation of inclusive practices.
View the Concept: https://regulations.nu.edu.kz/handle/123456789/97
The University also has the Policy and Procedures for Supporting Students with Disabilities and Special Learning Needs. This document covers not only the provision of individualized support, but also the interaction of institutional, managerial, teaching and learning mechanisms necessary to create a fair, accessible and effective learning environment.
View the Policy: https://regulations.nu.edu.kz/handle/123456789/977
