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Symposium in Jena: Opportunities for neurodiverse students uncovered!
On June 27, 2025, a symposium on neurodivergence in studies took place at the Ernst Abbe University Jena to raise awareness and promote inclusive educational approaches.
Symposium in Jena: Opportunities for neurodiverse students uncovered!
On June 27, 2025, a groundbreaking symposium entitled “Studying with Neurodivergence” took place at the Ernst Abbe University of Jena. Around 260 participants, including 100 on-site and 160 online, gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing neurodiverse students. The initiator of the event, Laura Steiner, a committed student at the university, led through a varied program that included specialist lectures, panel discussions and technical demonstrations - such as a VR simulation for sensory overload. This event was made possible thanks to a broad coalition of internal and external university partners, including AOK Plus and ADHS Deutschland e. V., can be realized. idw online reports that the aim of the event was to raise awareness of neurodiversity in the university context and to promote exchange.
What does neurodivergence actually mean? Essentially, these are deviations from the neurotypical norm, which include, for example, ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyscalculia. These neurological peculiarities represent a challenge for many students. According to the University of Trier, neurodiverse students often experience a difficult start at university, often without having previously received a diagnosis. Nevertheless, it turns out that many of them have a high level of intelligence and, with the right support, are able to perform well in studies and exams. uni-trier highlights that students with dyslexia in particular have significant difficulties in written exams and need up to 50% more time to process texts.
Challenges and support for neurodiverse students
The difficulties don't stop there: Students with ADHD, which is estimated to affect around 2.5% of adults in Germany, often struggle with self-organization, deadlines and concentration. ADHD Germany therefore offers a variety of support options, including support groups, online meetings and contact counseling, to help these people overcome their challenges. Topics range from concentration training to burnout prevention to ensure holistic support.
The panelists at the symposium, including prominent voices such as Prof. Dr. Sven Bölte and Dr. Mark Benecke, not only discussed the challenges, but also the need for an inclusive university system. Teachers can make a significant difference through measures to compensate for disadvantages, such as more time during exams or providing their own exam room. Such measures are essential to reduce prejudice and stigma and ensure the important access to high-quality education for all students.
In summary, it can be said that the symposium at EAH Jena was an important step in the right direction to make the needs and experiences of neurodiverse students visible and to work together on solutions. Networking and exchange among participants could help make higher education more accessible and diverse for everyone in the future.