Improving accessibility and inclusivity in academic dress: a study based in a South African Higher Education Institution

Abstract

The modern academic gown used by some higher educational institutions (HEIs) in South Africa for graduation ceremonies is not suitable for mobility-challenged graduates. This article presents the challenges experienced by mobility-impaired graduates wearing a modern academic gown and their practical needs for an ideal academic gown. The study includes interviews with five mobility-challenged graduates from different universities in South Africa. The results reveal that the wide sleeves and volume of the modern academic gown present challenges to mobility-challenged graduates, creating mobility challenges during the ceremony. The study proposes two inclusive academic gown designs: one for wheelchair users and another for both mobility-challenged and users without mobility challenges. The proposed inclusive designs were modeled based on the needs identified by the participants and were shown to be effective in accommodating mobility-challenged graduates. The paper concludes by highlighting the need for HEIs in South Africa to include inclusive academic dress in their assortment of academic gowns to accommodate the needs of mobility-challenged graduates.