Alicia Rossouw, a 19-year-old student from the University of Pretoria (UP), is on a mission to change the world of technology. Currently pursuing a BSc in Computer Science at UP, Rossouw’s journey is one of determination and passion for accessibility.

Her primary goal is to enhance accessibility features in websites and applications. This passion stems from her personal experience with vision loss, which began in 2018 due to thin optic nerves. Despite this challenge, Rossouw has set clear objectives for herself.

“I want to be treated with respect just like any other person, without being treated differently because of my disability,” she says. “I want students to know that I am capable of doing anything I set my mind to, even if I have a disability. My methods might look different from others, but I am equally capable.”

UP’s Disability Unit – recently renamed Access, Disability and Inclusion Services (ADIS) – has been instrumental in helping her pursue these goals. Their support began even before she enrolled, providing her with information and reassurance about the accommodation options available. This early interaction was crucial in alleviating her concerns about studying at university level.

Once Rossouw began her studies, the Disability Unit provided comprehensive assistance. Staff members organised assistants for on-campus navigation and classroom support, and facilitated initial consultations with lecturers and tutors. The unit arranged and approved concessions for additional time during exams, provided computer usage allowances and readers/ scribes when needed, and offered separate facilities for test-taking. Additionally, they worked with her to create awareness among university staff and advocated for more accessible lectures and study materials.

“I wish to be remembered for breaking the barriers between the ideas people have about individuals with disabilities and the reality of living with a disability,” Rossouw says.

Her goals extend beyond personal academic achievements. She aims to complete her BSc and potentially pursue an honours degree, and is also working to foster collaboration between faculties to improve accessibility for all students. Her role as Secretary of the School of IT Sub-House Executive Committee is testament to this commitment.

Looking to the future, Rossouw dreams of becoming part of UP’s staff, possibly as a lecturer. Her long-term goal is to bridge the gap between accessibility and non-accessibility within university environments, using her unique perspective to drive change.

Her journey showcases how targeted support can enable students with disabilities to not only participate in higher education but also to excel and contribute to the broader university community.

As she progresses in her studies and career, Rossouw aims to pursue her dreams while also paving the way for greater inclusivity in higher education and the tech industry.