Public complaint by visually impaired student
Allegations of discrimination at the University of Cyprus have been raised by a visually impaired student and her father, who claim the student was subjected to unequal treatment and victimisation during her academic studies and practical training.
The claims focus on the student’s practical placement, where she argues that she did not receive the necessary reasonable adjustments required to ensure equal participation and fair assessment.
Student claims lack of support during practical training
In her formal submission, the student states that the absence of adequate support measures during her practical training affected her academic performance and final evaluation.
She requests a full reassessment of her practical courses by an independent committee, along with written justification for her grades and a review of the evaluation criteria used.
The student also calls for an investigation into whether the lack of adjustments resulted in discrimination based on disability and whether this influenced her academic outcome.
University of Cyprus rejects allegations
The University of Cyprus strongly rejects the allegations, describing them as unfounded.
In an official statement, the university emphasised its long-standing commitment to equal access and participation for all students, including those with disabilities, in line with the applicable legal framework.
It stated that reasonable accommodations had been provided in this case, including financial support for a companion during practical training, funding for tutoring assistance, extensions for completing coursework and practical requirements, adjustments to submission deadlines and modifications to teaching schedules.
Additional support measures cited
According to the university, further tailored support measures were also provided based on the student’s specific needs.
It added that the institution operates structured procedures to support students with disabilities and is prepared to present full documentation of its processes if required by competent authorities.
The university also expressed concern over what it described as the public dissemination of unverified claims, noting that such statements could undermine trust in institutional procedures and academic staff.
Father calls for independent investigation
The student’s father has filed a formal complaint alleging discrimination, unequal treatment and victimisation due to his daughter’s disability.
He claims that despite medical documentation, external recommendations and repeated requests for support, the university failed to fully implement appropriate accommodations during her studies.
He also argues that the student successfully completed all academic coursework but was prevented from completing her degree due to issues related to her practical placement.
Call for review of procedures
The father is requesting a full, independent and impartial investigation into the case, including a review of whether comparable cases involving other students were treated differently.
He also raises broader concerns about equal treatment and the implementation of disability rights within higher education.
Ongoing dispute
The case highlights broader tensions around disability rights, academic assessment standards and the implementation of reasonable adjustments in higher education settings.
The matter remains under public discussion following the competing claims from both sides.
Also read: Father accuses University of Cyprus of discrimination against visually impaired daughter
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