As you may be aware, the University is launching a new online training module as per the requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The module is being launched in a staggered fashion with the next phase having been launched on Wednesday, April 5.

The training has been made available to members of CUPE 3902 Unit 1, who will be paid for completing it, in accordance with the rates set out in their collective agreement. Payment for this training will be made from a central fund. The process for recording completion and disbursing payment will take place centrally. Members were informed of the availability and process in a memo where they were instructed to complete the training before April 30, 2017 in order for it to be included in their May pay. Those who supervise TAs and other members of CUPE 3902 Unit 1 are asked to ensure that this training module is completed.

Further Information about the AODA and this Training

This module is delivered through the Learning Portal and is now available to staff in the following employee groups:

• Confidential
• Professional and Managerial
• USW (Appointed and Casual)
• CUPE 3902 Unit 1

Over the coming weeks, we will continue to make the module available to different employee groups. It is intended that the roll-out of the training be completed by the first week of May. Communications will be sent through various channels accordingly.

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is aimed at making the places you work, live, and learn as accessible as possible. With the initial introduction of the Customer Service Standard of the AODA in 2010, the University began distributing the ‘Blue Brochure’ which covered its training requirements. It also delivered a series of online training modules on accessible customer service and the AODA. Further, the AODA Office has been providing in-person training, outreach, and resources on the requirements of the AODA.

This new training will be delivered through a 30-minute online module and is intended for all U of T employees, existing and new. This training replaces the ‘Blue Brochure’ and provides additional information on the requirements of the AODA, its Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation and the Ontario Human Rights Code as it relates to disability. We will be tracking completion of training using the University’s human resources information system.

We look forward to your completion of this training and making the University of Toronto more accessible for all of our staff, faculty, and students. Any questions can be directed to aoda@utoronto.ca.