UQ donation may help to train new guide dog

The University of Queensland has continued its commitment to students with disabilities with a $2000 donation to the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association.

Vice-Chancellor Professor John Hay said a wide range of initiatives were available to maximise the learning experience and academic potential of more than 800 students who were currently enrolled at the University and had reported having a disability.

"The University is strongly committed to providing equal opportunities and the best possible educational experience to students with disabilities through an environment tailored to their particular needs," he said.

Professor Hay will present the Association's Rehabilitation Services Manager Bashir Ebrahim and Capital Campaign Co-ordinator Stacey Guymer with a cheque on Monday, August 23, at the St Lucia campus. Mr Ebrahim said the money could be used to train a new guide dog. Also in attendance will be Student Support Services Director Dr Maureen Burke and the Head of the School of Veterinary Science and Animal Production Professor Keith Hughes.

University Student Support Services disability program adviser Laura Duggan said the University offered services and equipment to assist students who had mobility, hearing, vision or other disabilities.

"This donation represents a thank you for the many hours Association staff spend orientating potential and new students with vision impairment around the campus," Ms Duggan said.

"This daily challenge has been made easier with the installation of a ?Braille trail' in Campbell Place between the Great Court exit at the Duhig and Steele Buildings and the Student Union complex."

She said the trail consisted of slightly raised tiles students could feel with their feet or canes in order to navigate their way around the area. The trail has loops to the lower-level entrance of the Social Sciences Library and the Abel Smith Lecture Theatre. There is also a Braille trail at the University's new UQ Ipswich campus. "The plan is to have Braille trails installed as matter-of-course when new buildings are constructed and also to have more lifts with a recorded voice telling passengers what floor they are at," Ms Duggan said.

The cheque presentation will be made at the Relaxation Block (Building 21D) from 3pm. Two current students and their guide dogs, Christine Acton and Lena Olsson-Lalor, will attend the ceremony as well as former student Julie Webb. An Association puppy will also be at the event.

For more information, contact Laura Duggan (telephone 07 3365 1508).