ULM Facilitates 16 Students with Disabilities in the 2025 Computer-Based Written Examination (UTMBK) with Manual Tests and Special Assessments
Banjarmasin, Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) demonstrated its commitment to inclusive higher education by providing special facilities for 16 students with disabilities in the 2025 Computer-Based Written Examination (UTMBK).
On the third day of the UTMBK, Wednesday (July 2, 2025), 16 prospective students with disabilities took the Academic Potential Test (TPA) with an adapted format. They included 5 deaf students, 4 blind students, 3 mentally retarded or intellectually challenged students, 1 slow learner, 1 with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and 2 with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Unlike regular students who used computers, students with disabilities received manual questions specifically designed to meet their needs. To ensure a conducive exam process, all participants were assisted by volunteers from the Special Education Study Program.
“They don’t use a computer system because they have different disabilities. Therefore, questions are given manually, and assistance is provided so participants can focus and comfortably complete the exam,” said Nieke Rezeki Febriantie, S.E., M.M., Head of the ULM Academic Bureau.
After the exam, each participant will undergo a follow-up assessment with their parents or guardians. This assessment is conducted by a team of experts from the ULM Special Education Study Program to determine the prospective student’s eligibility for their chosen study program.
“This assessment is important because not all children with special needs are suitable for all study programs. If they are forced into a program that is not suitable for them, it will actually be detrimental to them psychologically and academically,” explained Feby.
The results of this assessment will then be discussed in a meeting with the study program coordinator to ensure that successful participants have the skills and sufficient support to successfully complete their studies.
Furthermore, ULM also strives to provide scholarship support for students with disabilities. Last year, PT Bayan Resources awarded 20 scholarships to ULM students with disabilities. Because the number of students with disabilities accepted exceeded the quota, an internal selection process was conducted, and the remaining applicants were submitted for scholarships from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology’s Student Affairs and Student Affairs (Belmawa).
“This scholarship is not only a form of financial assistance, but also an affirmation that students with disabilities have equal rights and opportunities to pursue higher education,” said Feby.
Through the inclusive UTMBK (University Test) process and comprehensive assessment, ULM hopes to provide a fair and welcoming learning environment for all, and produce resilient and competitive graduates, regardless of physical or cognitive limitations.
