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

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

On Thursday, October 3, the University of Montpellier and its Handiversité department within the Campus Life Division (DVC) are organizing the signing of the new Atypie-Friendly charter in the presence of Philippe Augé, President of UM; Agnès Fichard-Carroll, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Campus Life and UM’s disability liaison; and the team from the national Atypie-Friendly program. The signing ceremony will take place on the Triolet campus starting at 1:00 p.m. and will be followed by presentations on neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD).

Neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and “dys” disorders, or specific language and learning disorders. In France, one in ten people has one of these neurodevelopmental disorders. By signing the Atypie-Friendly charter, the University of Montpellier is continuing its strong commitment to the inclusion of people with autism or, more broadly, those with a neurodevelopmental disorder.

From Aspie-Friendly to Atypie-Friendly

Part of the national autism strategy since 2018 and a recipient of a grant from the Investments for the Future (PIA) program, the “Building an Aspie-Friendly University” project has, for the past five years, been encouraging universities to become more inclusive toward students with autism who do not have an intellectual disability. The goal is to improve their experience in higher education and support them in their social and professional integration. The project aims to address all aspects of this journey, from working with national education partners before students enter university, through educational adaptation, digital tools, social support, and training, all the way to social and professional integration. It now brings together more than 25 partner institutions in France. Since July 2023, Aspie-Friendly has become Atypie-Friendly, to reflect the gradual expansion of the initiative to other neurodevelopmental disorders, starting with ADHD and “dys” disorders.

The University of Montpellier remains committed to this cause

The signing of this charter will formalize the University’s support efforts aimed at promoting the inclusion of current and prospective students with autism and, more broadly, those with neurodevelopmental disorders. The charter outlines the joint actions of the institutions and local teams involved, along with concrete measures to promote the well-being and academic and professional success of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders.