Related to SDGs
The Faculty of Social and Political Sciences at Universitas Negeri Semarang (FISIP UNNES) continues to reinforce the role of higher education as a space for learning diversity and empathy by opening direct interaction spaces between students and the disability community on September 16, 2026. Rather than treating inclusivity merely as an academic concept, students were encouraged to engage directly with the Sahabat Mata Community of Semarang City, an organization dedicated to education, empowerment, and creative development for the visually impaired. Vice Dean for Business, Research, and Cooperation at FISIP UNNES, Dr.sos. Puji Lestari, M.Si., emphasized the university’s responsibility to shape appropriate perspectives on disability. “What we need to build is not just sympathy, but also the awareness that individuals with disabilities have the exact same rights, opportunities, and space to learn, create, and contribute,” Puji stated.
This initiative demonstrates that an inclusive campus environment extends beyond physical infrastructure like ramps to encompass equal access to information and social participation. Chairman of the Sahabat Mata Foundation, Basuki, welcomed the initiative, noting that individuals with disabilities require real platforms to showcase their capabilities. He added that an open and supportive environment significantly impacts the development of visually impaired individuals across education and creative fields. The presence of the community on campus effectively brings accessibility issues closer to students’ daily experiences while gradually eliminating social stigma to cultivate a safe and respectful educational atmosphere.
This inclusivity initiative directly supports the achievement of three key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). First, it promotes Quality Education (SDG 4) by creating an inclusive, open higher education ecosystem that guarantees equal access for everyone. Second, the movement actively contributes to Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) by combating social stigma and empowering individuals with disabilities through equal opportunities. Finally, the strategic collaboration between FISIP UNNES and the Sahabat Mata Foundation embodies Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) to drive sustainable social impact within the broader community.
