The University of Montpellier is committed to improving inclusion for students with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).

[Press release] - Published on September 23, 2024 in Press Room

On Thursday, October 3, the University of Montpellier and its Handiversité service of the Campus Life Department (DVC) are organizing the signing of the new Atypie-Friendly charter in the presence of Philippe Augé, President of the UM, Agnès Fichard-Carroll, Vice-President in charge of training and university life and disability representative of the UM, and the team of the national Atypie-Friendly program. The signing will take place on the Triolet campus starting at 1:00 p.m. and will be followed by presentations on neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs).

NLDs include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD), and "dys" disorders or specific language and learning disorders. In France, one in ten people has one of these TNDs. By signing the Atypie-Friendly charter, the University of Montpellier is continuing its strong commitment to the inclusivity of people with autism or, more broadly, with a TND.

From Aspie-Friendly to Atypie-Friendly

Part of the national autism strategy since 2018 and winner of a call for projects from the Investments for the Future Program (PIA), the "Building an Aspie-Friendly University" project has been encouraging universities for the past five years to become more inclusive of students with autism who do not have intellectual disabilities. The aim is to improve their higher education experience and support them in their social and professional integration. The project seeks to address all issues, from working with national education partners prior to university entry, to social and professional integration, including educational adaptation, digital tools, social support, and training. It now brings together more than 25 partner institutions in France. In July 2023, Aspie-Friendly became Atypie-Friendly to reflect the gradual expansion of the initiative to other neurodevelopmental disorders, starting with ADHD and "dys" disorders.

Montpellier University continues its commitment

The signing of this charter will formalize the University's efforts to support the inclusion of current and future students with autism and, more broadly, those with neurodevelopmental disorders. The charter defines joint actions to be taken by the institutions and local teams involved, with concrete measures to promote the well-being and academic and professional success of people with neurodevelopmental disorders.