PENGETAHUAN DAN STIGMA MAHASISWA UIN AR-RANIRY TERHADAP DISABILITAS

The global approach to disability has shifted from a paradigm of charity towards a human rights paradigm. However, social reality still reveals a gap between the principle of equality and everyday interactions. People with disabilities continue to face stigma in the form of perceptions of incapacity, excessive pity, labelling, differential treatment, and limited social acceptance. This study aims to analyse the stigma and knowledge of students at the Ar-Raniry State Islamic University (UIN) in Banda Aceh regarding people with disabilities. The study employed a qualitative approach, with informants comprising nine students and three students with disabilities at UIN Ar-Raniry, Banda Aceh. The findings indicate that students’ stigma manifests not only through overt rejection or discrimination but also through negative perceptions of the capabilities of people with disabilities, excessive pity, labelling, and differential treatment in social interactions. Students’ knowledge of disability revealed varying levels of understanding. Some students understood students with disabilities as individuals possessing equal capabilities, autonomy, rights and opportunities, whilst others still perceived disability primarily in terms of limitations and dependence. This research indicates that the presence of students with disabilities within the university environment does not automatically lead to social inclusion. Inclusion requires a shift in students’ perspectives through a more substantive understanding of the diversity of abilities, rights, autonomy and equality of people with disabilities. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening disability literacy and fostering more equitable social interactions within the university environment.