About the Scheme
The IIMT University Disability Mentoring & Access Scheme is a structured programme that pairs students with disabilities with trained peer mentors drawn from the same or related academic disciplines. The scheme is coordinated by the Disability Support Office in collaboration with the University Social Responsibility (USR) Cell and the Student Union.
The scheme operates across all 16 Schools of IIMT University and is open to any student registered with the Disability Support Office. It complements formal academic accommodations by providing social, emotional, and practical peer support throughout the academic journey — from orientation to graduation.
Programme Pillars
Peer Mentoring
One-to-one pairing with a trained senior student mentor. Regular check-ins, academic guidance, and social integration support throughout the year.
Academic Access
Guidance on navigating accommodation letters, exam arrangements, assistive technology, and liaising with faculty on behalf of mentees.
Transition Support
Pre-enrolment orientation, campus familiarisation tours, and first-week induction for new students with disabilities joining IIMT University.
How the Scheme Works
Step 1 — Register with the Disability Support Office
Students register with the DSO and indicate their interest in the Mentoring & Access Scheme during the needs assessment process.
Step 2 — Mentor Matching
The DSO matches each student with a trained peer mentor from the same school or a related discipline, taking into account disability type, personality, and academic interests.
Step 3 — Introductory Meeting
Mentee and mentor meet for an initial in-person session facilitated by a DSO coordinator. A personalised support plan is developed together.
Step 4 — Ongoing Mentoring Sessions
Regular scheduled meetings (minimum fortnightly), supplemented by WhatsApp / email communication. Mentors assist with navigating university systems, social life, and academic challenges.
Step 5 — Progress Review
Termly review meetings with the DSO coordinator to assess progress, update the support plan, and address any new challenges.
Mentor Training & Selection
All peer mentors are trained volunteers who complete the IIMT University Disability Mentor Training Programme before being matched with a mentee. Training is delivered by the Disability Support Office in partnership with the Counselling Centre.
Mentor Training Covers
- Disability awareness and equality principles
- Active listening and non-judgmental support
- Confidentiality and professional boundaries
- University support systems and signposting
- Assistive technology overview
- Crisis recognition and escalation procedures
Mentor Selection Criteria
- Second year or above at IIMT University
- Good academic standing (no active disciplinary record)
- Genuine commitment to inclusive education
- Empathetic, patient, and reliable
- Completion of mandatory training programme
- Recommended by faculty or self-nominated
Support Available Under the Scheme
| Support Area | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Campus Orientation | Pre-semester campus tour highlighting accessible routes, facilities, and key offices | Access |
| Academic Navigation | Help understanding timetables, accessing e-learning platforms, and using the library | Mentoring |
| Accommodation Guidance | Support in requesting and implementing reasonable accommodations from faculty | Access |
| Social Integration | Introduction to student clubs, events, and peer networks relevant to interests | Mentoring |
| Exam Preparation | Study strategies, managing exam accommodations, and stress reduction techniques | Mentoring |
| Technology Support | Guidance on assistive software, voice-to-text tools, and accessible learning formats | Access |
| Welfare Signposting | Referral to counselling, health centre, or DSO for complex needs | Mentoring |
| Career & Internship Support | Guidance on disclosing disability to employers and accessing career development services | Access |
Become a Peer Mentor
IIMT University invites senior students from all 16 Schools to volunteer as peer mentors. Mentoring is a deeply rewarding experience that develops leadership, communication, and empathy skills — qualities valued by employers and society alike.
| What Mentors Gain | Detail |
|---|---|
| Official Certification | Certificate of Completion issued by the Disability Support Office on successful completion of one academic year of mentoring |
| Skills Development | Leadership, active listening, conflict resolution, and cross-disability awareness — all formally recognised in the IIMT Co-Curricular Record |
| Priority USR Credits | Mentoring hours count towards University Social Responsibility (USR) programme requirements |
| Reference Letter | Faculty reference letter available on successful completion of mentoring term |
| Community | Access to the IIMT Peer Mentor Network — annual events, networking, and recognition awards |