The Sunflower Programme at DTU

The Sunflower Programme is an international initiative aimed at raising awareness of invisible disabilities through discreet symbols such as the green sunflower lanyard. The sunflower serves as a way of indicating that a person may require extra consideration, time, and patience in their daily life.

As a member of the Sunflower Programme, DTU supports students and staff with invisible disabilities, which can present various challenges in everyday life. Membership is one of the ways in which the university takes responsibility for promoting equality and inclusion in our study and work environments.

At DTU, we expect everyone to show patience and consideration towards one another – regardless of whether they wear a sunflower symbol or not. The sunflower is an invitation to understanding – not an obligation to share. But the symbol can be an opportunity to take an interest in your fellow students’ challenges, and in how we can be more considerate of one another. Dialogue promotes understanding.

Remember:

  • Invisible disabilities vary
  • Not everyone wants to explain themselves
  • Small gestures can make a big difference

Q&A about the sunflower

  • DTU Lyngby Campus: The reception in Building 101A
  • DTU Ballerup Campus: Study Guidance (SIFO)
  • DTU Risø Campus: The reception in Building 118 (DTU Wind)
  • DTU Sisimiut Greenland: Contact arctic@dtu.dk
  • DTU Frederikshavn: Room B14 and B17
  • DTU Kalundborg: The reception in Building 101A in Lyngby
  • DTU Mors: The reception/secretary
  • DTU Silkeborg: The reception/secretary
  • DTU Hirtshals: Secretariat
  • Dana V, research vessel: Secretary, Dana
  •  Polyteknisk Forening: Social coordinator, PF

If you wear the sunflower lanyard, you are letting your fellow students and lecturers know that you have an invisible disability and that you may need patience, time or assistance.

Some people only wearthe lanyard occasionally, for example at events with large crowds or in other situations where you might find yourself struggling. That’s perfectly fine – you’re the one who decides when and how you use the sunflower.

  • You decide for yourself whether and what you want to share
  • You can help by making your fellow students and teachers aware of your needs, if relevant
  • Contribute to the dialogue and focus on practical solutions that can make everyday life easier

Show common courtesy and bear in mind that the person may need some flexibility. This could include:

  • Extra patience in group work
  • Understanding during breaks or changes
  • Openness to dialogue if the person brings it up themselves

You don’t need to ask directly about their situation – but you can create a safe space where it’s okay to speak up. The most important thing isn’t knowing the diagnosis but treating the person with understanding.

Patience and respect are always important.


If it feels natural, then yes. Often, a simple “Let me know if I can help” is enough. Be friendly, flexible, and respectful. That’s often the most important thing, and:

  • Avoid drawing conclusions about the person’s abilities
  • Avoid asking demanding or personal questions
  • Avoid ignoring the signal completely

Be friendly, flexible, and respectful. That is often the most important thing. 

  • Avoid drawing conclusions about the person’s abilities 
  • Avoid asking demanding or personal questions 
  • Avoid ignoring the signal completely

On the Sunflower programme’s website 

Here you can find out more about what invisible disability is.


Need help or support?

If you need further, more specific help or support, please contact DTU's Study Guidance or SPS Office.

Would you like to find out more?

You can find much more information about invisible disabilities and access various training materials on the Sunflower Programme’s website.