SFU launches inaugural Accessibility Plan

The university’s first institutional Accessibility Plan marks a significant step towards building an equitable and inclusive SFU for all who work, live, teach and learn here.

Informed by the perspectives and needs of students, faculty, staff and alumni with disabilities, the plan outlines the necessary action required to create systemic change in alignment with the Equity Compass while ensuring the university is in compliance with the Accessible British Columbia Act. 

“Implementing and sustaining meaningful accessibility improvements is a long-term journey. This initial plan articulates the areas that require immediate attention, prioritizing actions with urgency, impact and feasibility in mind,” said Accessibility Committee Secretariat Laya Behbahani.

Building on the foundation created by the Accessibility Committee and the feedback mechanism established in 2023, the plan is guided by survey responses and engagement sessions with SFU community members. A key output of the consultation process is the SFU Accessibility Framework, which outlines four dimensions of accessibility at the university: culture, academics, operations and environment.

The initial action program spans five years, with the most pressing steps highlighted up front. Through the Equity Office, Accessibility Secretariat and Committee, SFU will refine the plan each year, responding to provincial standards and community feedback. An annual implementation plan will define milestones and responsibilities, supporting both responsible resource allocation and transparent reporting. 

“Collectively, we are dedicated to learning and course correcting along the way, celebrating our achievements and advancing accessibility to help create a university where all members of the community can flourish,” Behbahani.  

All SFU community members are also invited to participate in the Demographics and Diversity Data Survey to help ensure the right supports are in place for students, faculty and staff. If you have feedback or questions about accessibility at SFU, please contact access@sfu.ca.