This will be undertaken in collaboration with the UCT Disability Unit which has a similar programme focusing on students. Policy will be developed on the purchase of equipment which will open up employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The University will also embark on initiatives to promote understanding of the capabilities of people with disabilities in the workplace, the image of capable, disabled employees, and the career porential for staff with disabilities. 1.4 Institutional culture Research has been done which indicates that in the perception of some staff, UCT's institutional culture is a barrier to equity. It is unclear whether or to what extent the negative aspects of this culture have changed over time as a result of all the efforts that have been made by the University in this regard.
Indications are nonetheless that there are issues which remain unresolved.
These need to be addressed further. 1.5 Skills development and training There has been a lack of adequate skills development and training for a long period of time, especially with regard to staff in the lower occupational categories. More generally, staff have also cited as barriers to training and development the workload and pressure created by having to function effectively even though requiring more training. The Skills Development Act which places emphasis on the responsibility and commitment of employers to train their employees will assist in alleviating these problems. A Workplace Skills Plan for UCT is currently being finalised.