In recognition of the institute’s commitment to promoting inclusivity, fostering diversity and continuously evolving support for those on the autism spectrum, DkIT was awarded an Autism Friendly University Award from AsIAm, Ireland's Autism Charity. The award was presented to DkIT president Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan by Adam Harris, Founder and CEO of AsIAm at a launch on DkIT’s campus on October 14th 2024.

DkIt’s journey towards achieving this award began in September 2021, when the Institute looked at exploring new ways to support neurodiverse students by becoming an Autism Friendly Institute. An application was submitted to AsIAm in July 2022, and following this, the Institute formed a Steering Group, engaged with students and conducted a sensory audit with AsIAm. In September 2023 DkIT was accredited as an Autism Friendly Candidate.  The institute then worked towards achieving full accreditation by developing an action plan and implementing various initiatives aimed at creating an inclusive environment for all students, led by the Disability Service Team and the staff in the Department of Creative Arts.

As an institute, DkIT has taken a continuously practical approach, raising awareness, providing support services and implementing inclusive policies to significantly impact the lives of neurodiverse staff and students. Some of the initiatives which have been implemented include; an Assistive Technology Room, the creation of a dedicated sensory space, seating pods in the main canteen, pre-induction orientation offered for autistic students, ongoing staff and student training, a lecture series for neurodivergent students and a new Maze Map wayfinding system to help students navigate the campus with ease.

Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan, President of DkIT said:

“I would like to thank AsIAm for their continued support and recognition of the engagement by students and staff on our journey to supporting autistic students. At DkIT we strive for an environment where everyone in our community is accepted as they are, enabling all students to participate equally in our programmes and ensuring autistic students have a voice in all aspects of student life. Our team at DkIT continues to show a steadfast commitment to supporting our neurodiverse students as they face the challenges of higher education, and I look forward to supporting our community to further increase awareness and capacity to support autistic students across our campus.”

 Speaking at the event, Adam Harris, CEO of AsIAm said:

“We would like to warmly congratulate DkIT on achieving our Autism-Friendly HEI Award. Our Award framework challenges higher education institutions to take a whole of campus, neuroaffirmative approach to supporting Autistic students and employees. Since the Award launched in 2018, HEIs across Ireland have responded to the framework through institution-specific 3-year plans which remove barriers for Autistic people transitioning to university, accessing the curriculum, engaging in campus life and securing employment. The robust awards process requires significant strategic focus and commitment from participating HEIs and is overseen by an international accreditation panel. Today marks a major achievement by the entire DkIT community and we look forward to supporting them in the implementation of their 3-year plan. It is vital that Autistic students and academics have the same chance to study, participate and gain employment in universities across Ireland.”

DkIT is the fifth Higher Level Institute in Ireland to have received the award. The path to obtaining the award for an Autism Friendly Higher Education Institute Award involved engagement from staff and students across DkIT.

Áine Cleary, a final year Business Studies student spoke about what it meant to her to be a part of the process and the amazing support she has received at DkIT:

“Being part of the AsIAm Autism Friendly HEI project has been a wonderful experience. It has allowed me to share my perspective and help make our campus more inclusive. This project has inspired me to pursue a career in Human Resources where I hope to create workplaces that offer the same support and understanding I’ve experienced at DkIT. I’m grateful to be part of a college that cares about accessibility and inclusivity. By sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.”