Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Equal and nondiscriminatory access in the built environment enables persons with disabilities to move and interact freely without encountering any hindrances or barriers. As per the University Grants Commission, India, all universities and colleges must provide 3% reservation to disabled students. Ensuring equal access to education is crucial, especially for individuals with disabilities. People with disabilities suffer from poor access to academic and cultural facilities that an institution offers; hence, the purpose of this study is to analyze the accessibility compliance of academic buildings in terms of the design and infrastructure with the existing standards. Materials and Methods: The observational study was conducted in the Central Library, New Teaching Block, and Convention Centre at a Tertiary Care Government Teaching Hospital in North India, for 2 months. An observational checklist was used for data collection, which was made using Harmonized Guidelines and Standards for Universal Accessibility in India, 2021, and Accessibility Guidelines and Standards for Higher Education Institutions and Universities, Government of India. Results: The overall compliance of the Central Library, New Teaching Block, and Convention Centre was 49%, 42%, and 39%, respectively. In the Central Library, of 21 parameters, 12 parameters showed compliance ≥50% and 10 parameters scored ≥50% in the New Teaching Block. In the Convention Centre, 19 parameters were observed, of which eight parameters scored ≥50%. Conclusion: The data indicate the development of more accessible facilities for people with disabilities on the university premises. Implementing better infrastructure and technology shall create more inclusive and equitable educational environments.

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