True student representation and advocacy are only possible when everyone can participate fully and equitably. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where students from all backgrounds and abilities can engage in our activities, discussions, and initiatives.
To ensure that our work is as inclusive as possible, GSF is actively working on multiple fronts to enhance accessibility within our platform and activities. Here’s how we’re focusing our efforts:
- Accessible Communication
We strive to make all of our communications—including our website, newsletters, and social media—accessible to individuals with varying abilities. This includes using clear language, providing alternative text for images, and ensuring our digital content is screen-reader friendly. - Inclusive Events
Our events, whether virtual or in-person, are designed to be accessible. For virtual events, we offer automatic closed captions and user-friendly platforms that support various assistive technologies. During in-person events, we seek to choose wheelchair-accessible venues and try to provide materials in different formats to accommodate all participants. - Supporting Diverse Needs
We understand that accessibility means different things for different individuals. Our approach is flexible, acknowledging the diversity of needs among students. We consult with students who have lived experience of disabilities to improve our practices and policies. - Continuous Improvement
Accessibility is an ongoing journey. We welcome feedback from our community to help us identify areas for improvement. If you encounter any barriers while engaging with GSF, please let us know—we're here to listen and make necessary changes.
How We’re Making Progress
- Digital Accessibility
We are continuously working on enhancing the accessibility of our website. Our goal is to comply with the latest Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure our digital presence is accessible to everyone. - Training and Resources
We are developing training and resources for our team and volunteers to understand the importance of accessibility. By raising awareness and building capacity within our organization, we aim to integrate inclusive practices into all aspects of our work. - Collaborations
GSF collaborates with organizations and networks advocating for accessibility and inclusion in education. By partnering with experts, we can leverage best practices and advocate for systemic changes that promote accessibility in education worldwide.
Part of Equality and Inclusion
Our accessibility work is part of our strategic priority on Equality and Inclusion. Read more here:
Equality and Inclusion - Global Student Forum
