The Hebrew University is dedicated to prioritizing accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Over the past years, the university has made significant investments in enhancing the accessibility of its facilities and study programs. These efforts extend to improving physical access across its four campuses, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can easily utilize the diverse facilities and services provided by the University.

Please address any requests and suggestions regarding accessibility to the University’s accessibility coordinator, Irit Harat 

Student inquiries relating to accessibility and academic and other accommodations should be submitted to the accessibility coordinators at the Dean of Students Office:

Accessibility Services Center Coordinator and Mount Scopus Campus Coordinator: negishut@savion.huji.ac.il

Safra (Givat Ram) Campus Coordinator: accessibilitysafra@savion.huji.ac.il

Ein Karem Campus Coordinator: accessibilityek@savion.huji.ac.il

Rehovot Campus Coordinator: negishutfaculty@gmail.com

Accessibility of Websites

The University is dedicated to ensuring that its public websites are accessible, adhering to the accessibility regulations outlined in the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law. Our commitment to accessibility includes the following measures:

Compliance with Standards: Accessibility adaptations are conducted in strict accordance with the recommendations set forth in Israel Standard 5568, which is based on the WCAG 2.0 guidelines at the AA level.

Cross-Platform Compatibility: Our websites are designed to be compatible with all commonly used web browsers and smartphones, ensuring a seamless user experience.

Color Contrast: The colors used on our websites adhere to relevant contrast requirements, promoting readability and usability for all visitors.

 

Keyboard Navigation: To facilitate keyboard navigation, we have incorporated features such as using the Tab key and arrow keys for navigation, with the Enter key serving to select menu options.

Font Size Adjustment: Our website menus include an option to increase font size, empowering users to customize their viewing experience.

Accessibility of Buildings and Infrastructure on Campuses:

The Hebrew University is committed to making all parts of its campuses accessible to individuals with disabilities, with a particular focus on our learning facilities. Our ongoing efforts, managed by the Construction and Infrastructure Department, encompass a wide array of accessibility projects, including:

Elevator Accessibility: Installation and modification of elevators in campus buildings to ensure they are fully accessible.

Accessible Restrooms: Construction and renovation of accessible toilet stalls throughout campus facilities.

Assistive Hearing Systems: Installation of assistive hearing systems in all major halls and lecture theaters.

Handrails: Installation of handrails in buildings and open areas to enhance safety and accessibility.

Accessible Entrances: Installation of accessible doors at all building entrances.

Sidewalk Accessibility: Lowering and modifying all sidewalks around campus facilities to meet updated accessibility standards.

Access Ramps: Installation of access ramps to buildings for improved mobility.

Accessible Parking: Enhancement of parking areas on campus to meet necessary accessibility standards.

Passageway and Stairway Modifications: Modifications to passageways and stairways, including appropriate signage and markings.

Classroom Accessibility: Modifications to seating in classrooms and lecture theaters to ensure compliance with accessibility standards.

Signage and Markings: Implementation of signage and markings in open areas and buildings to aid navigation.

 

"Step Hear" Systems: Installation of "Step Hear" systems, benefiting individuals with impaired vision, in the majority of campus buildings.

 

We remain committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all members of our community can fully participate in the educational experience.

Accessibility of Services

The Dean of Students Office (visit our website for more information) provides a range of valuable services, including tailored accommodations upon request, liaison with instructors and faculty secretariats, and personalized accessibility support. These essential services are offered through the Accessibility Services Center and encompass:

Advocacy and Mediation Assistance: We offer support in advocating for your needs and mediating with various stakeholders at the University, including lecturers and secretariats, to ensure an inclusive learning environment.

Referrals to Diagnosis and Treatment: We can guide you to appropriate diagnosis or treatment resources, both within the University and in external settings, as necessary for your specific requirements.

Assistive Technology Consultation: Our experts provide consultations on assistive technology, offering guidance on the use of FM devices, ergonomic equipment, and assistive software to enhance your academic experience.

Accommodation Recommendations for Exams: Based on medical documentation, we make recommendations for accommodations during exams, ensuring fair and equitable testing conditions.

Collaboration with External Agencies: We collaborate with external entities such as the National Insurance Institute and the Ministry of Defense, assisting you in realizing your rights to auxiliary services, which may include individual tutoring, mentoring, transcription services, and more.

We are committed to supporting your academic journey and ensuring that you have the resources and accommodations necessary to thrive at the University. Please feel free to visit our website for more information or contact us directly for personalized assistance.

Employee Training in Accessible Services

To date, the staff members at the Accessibility Services Center and the Unit for Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorder have received comprehensive training that encompasses the following key elements:

Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law: Training includes a thorough understanding of the content and significance of the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Law, ensuring a strong foundation in legal requirements and responsibilities.

 

Understanding Diverse Disabilities: Our staff is well-versed in the unique characteristics of various disabilities, including sensory disorders, chronic illnesses, physical disabilities, mental health disabilities, learning disabilities, and autism. This knowledge equips them to better assist students facing these challenges in their academic pursuits.

Experiential Learning: Our training program includes hands-on experiences, such as practical use of assistive hearing devices and immersive simulations that allow participants to gain insights into the daily challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Simulations cover hearing disabilities, attention deficit disorders, visual impairments, orthopedic difficulties, and the experience of being unable to read or write, among others.

Educational Videos: We utilize a range of relevant video content to deepen understanding and empathy. Some of this content is produced in-house at the University, while others are sourced externally, providing diverse perspectives on the experiences of people with disabilities.

Tailored Training for Faculty Members: In addition to raising awareness, we believe in equipping academic and administrative faculty with practical tools to ensure fair and equitable treatment and support for students with disabilities. Each training session includes practical segments focused on delivering accessible services through secretariats and offers recommendations to academic faculty on effective teaching methods.

Student Voices: Every training session features an invaluable component—an opportunity to hear directly from students with disabilities representing various fields of study. These students candidly share their personal experiences and challenges, providing a powerful and enlightening aspect of the program.

The University has devised a multi-year training initiative aimed at ingraining awareness of disability and accessibility legislation across all its employees. New employee training sessions will be conducted at the commencement of each academic year, with annual refresher courses to maintain and deepen knowledge. Furthermore, employees involved in providing student services will participate in experiential and practical workshops to enhance their capabilities in delivering support to students with disabilities. Our commitment to continuous education ensures that our university community remains inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of all our students.