The Department of Public Law at the University of Pretoria (UP) houses some of the institution's most pioneering modules on disability rights. On October 18th 2023, students enrolled in two key modules, namely, "Introduction to Disability Rights" and "Protection of Persons with Disabilities in a Global Context," participated in a Disability Rights Awareness Walk on the Hatfield Campus. This event was organised in collaboration with the South African Guide-Dog Association for the Blind, a significant partner in facilitating this practical on-campus walk.

Prof. Ilze Grobbelaar-du Plessis and Ms. Jolanda Pretorius of the Department of Public Law, spearheaded this initiative, which aimed to offer students an opportunity to experience environmental barriers which people with disabilities face on a daily basis, whilst creating awareness regarding disability rights on our campus. In addition to providing valuable insights, the event allowed students to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. This was a proactive approach to shed light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities on campus. Through a series of educational activities and collaborative efforts, the department has successfully generated awareness about disability rights and inclusion among students, faculty, and staff.

The activities leading up to this event were characterised by a countdown on ClickUP and LinkedIn coordinated by Ms. Jolanda Pretorius, an assistant lecturer in the Department of Public Law, who contributed to these efforts by creating informative videos that highlighted critical disability statistics, facts, and information about service dogs. These short videos served as a vital introduction to the practical experience, fostering a greater understanding of the issues surrounding disabilities.

During the Disability Rights Awareness Walk, students were divided into groups and assigned a Guide-Dog, a Puppy in Training, a wheelchair and earmuffs (with ear plugs) to simulate hearing impairment. Each group had the opportunity to partake in a blindfolded walk, guided by a Guide-Dog Trainer from the South African Guide Dog Association, experienced hearing impairment and the use of a wheelchair. This engaging experience allowed students to gain insight into the daily lives of individuals with visual impairments and other physical disabilities.

The primary objectives of these activities were twofold: to raise awareness about the importance of disability rights on campus and to identify environmental and attitudinal barriers that individuals with disabilities face regularly. By exposing students to various forms of disability through hands-on experiences, the department aimed to foster empathy, promote inclusivity, and instigate positive change.

The response from the university community, including students, faculty, and staff, was overwhelmingly supportive. The tutors and academic associates within the Department of Public Law actively participated in facilitating the different routes that students walked while experiencing diverse forms of disability. Both students from the "Introduction to Disability Rights" and "Protection of Persons with Disabilities in a Global Context" modules expressed their appreciation for a memorable experience that challenged and transformed their perceptions regarding disabilities.

Furthermore, the Department of Public Law's collaboration with the South African Guide-Dog Association was pivotal in the success of these initiatives. The practical on-campus walk provided students with invaluable first-hand experiences, while the DRL803 Protection of Persons with Disabilities in a Global Context module was further enriched by a lecture on the use of a White Cane and living independently in communities, courtesy of the SA Guide-Dog Association's Social Justice project.

In conclusion, the Department of Public Law at the University of Pretoria has made commendable strides in raising awareness of disability rights and inclusion. By actively involving students in practical experiences, fostering collaboration with external organisations, and leveraging the expertise of dedicated faculty, the department has made a lasting impact in promoting empathy and understanding regarding the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities on campus. These initiatives are a testament to UP's commitment to creating a more inclusive and compassionate educational environment.