On the first day of the new academic year, Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) is delighted to announce a $2M gift from the RBC Foundation that will expand and elevate programming for students with disabilities, improving opportunities for access, inclusion and success.
The transition to post-secondary education can be challenging for students, and students with disabilities often face additional difficulties and stresses.
Demand for Academic Accommodation Support (AAS) accessibility services part of Student Wellbeing at TMU surges at the beginning of each semester.
Between August and September, approximately 1,300 new students with disabilities register with TMU, each needing a customized accommodation plan to ensure they can make the most of their educational opportunities.
The goal of AAS is to provide for each student a supportive environment that fosters well-being and academic success.
'You are not in the process alone'
Liora Benmergui a recent graduate of TMU's Creative Industries program and incoming master's student in Digital Media values how AAS contributed to her educational experience.
"AAS is special because they are active with students. It is way more than a test centre. They helped me tailor communications to professors to help them understand what I needed to do my best. They work with you rather than just for you. You are not in the process alone," she said.
The RBC Foundation gift provides TMU's AAS office with resources to provide innovative programming aimed at easing students' transitions into university, supporting them throughout their academic career and preparing them for entering the workforce.
According to Statistics Canada, the gap between the employment rates of persons with and without disabilities tended to be considerably lower at higher levels of educational attainment.
Improving access to post-secondary education for people with disabilities not only improves equity, it provides the growth and development needed to equip people with the skills to succeed.
Helping students reach 'highest potential'
This is a core pillar within RBC Foundation's Purpose Framework, which outlines the organization's commitment to addressing key societal challenges and creating a positive impact.
"Every student deserves an inclusive educational experience that helps them develop the skills they need for a thriving future," said Michelle Waite, Regional President Greater Toronto Region at RBC. "By supporting students with disabilities during their post-secondary journey, they can reach their highest potential and be workforce ready."
With RBC Foundation's investment, AAS will leverage TMU's career-engaged learning, improving access to these opportunities for students with disabilities.
For the first time, AAS will provide work-integrated learning support alongside accommodation support, and foster student engagement in these opportunities as part of a complete learning plan.
This connection will create new resources and practical opportunities for skills development for TMU students with disabilities, contributing to more equitable prosperity.
Bridging the gap
Benmergui was able to participate in her program's mandatory internship and recognizes the value of work-integrated learning.
"Connecting AAS to co-op or work placement helps bridge the gap between education and the workplace. It also creates conversations around accommodation, and helps employers understand that individuals are much more than their accommodation needs," she said.
"RBC Foundation's investment will help create the kinds of experiences that can really shape students' confidence and help them at an early stage in their careers," she continued.
"Thanks to the RBC Foundation, students with disabilities at TMU will be in a better position to find their place in the economy of tomorrow," says Mohamed Lachemi, president and vice-chancellor of TMU.
"The AAS suite of programs and services for students with disabilities is recognized as one of the best in post-secondary education, and why many students choose TMU," he continued. "RBC Foundation is empowering us to extend our offering, giving students with disabilities better opportunities to build employment-ready skills to help them to thrive in the workplace as well as in their education."
"As the world of work changes, we want to help students keep pace - by supporting Academic Accommodation Services, we can help set students up for better success academically, so they can pursue meaningful careers and navigate the challenges of adult life and work," added RBC's Waite.
Growing demand
Over the last five years, 54 per cent more students have sought help from AAS.
To meet this growing need, TMU is working with students and donors like RBC Foundation to expand student wellness programs. These efforts are part of a new approach that connects different support services to help students succeed.
This vision will take shape in 2026 in the new Student Wellbeing Centre (SWC), where AAS will join TMU's other health and well-being services in an integrated hub for student care.
RBC and RBC Foundation have been longstanding partners of TMU, enhancing lives through support of research and education in disability studies, immigrant diversity and inclusion and more. With this latest investment, RBC Foundation helps ensure that students with disabilities can acquire the education, skills and experience they need to thrive.
