The AGH University of Kraków has received a grant from the European Union for the “Accessibility Academy Plus” project. We are implementing this project to increase the accessibility of the university for people with special needs, including those with disabilities, and to implement sustainable solutions that support equality and inclusion in the academic environment.
The “Accessibility Plus Academy” project aims to comprehensively develop support services for people with disabilities at the AGH University of Kraków. Activities focus on eight key areas, including
Key Areas of Activity
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Organizational structure – development of the AGH Accessibility Department, establishment of the Accessible Technology Advisory Section, and creation of the Accessibility Council;
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Architectural accessibility – modernization of the AGH Accessibility Department headquarters, accessibility audits, development of a plan to eliminate architectural barriers, measures related to the evacuation of people with disabilities and updating the university’s architectural standards.
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Accessibility to information and communication: audits, creation of a Needs Reporting System, launch of the Plain Language Advisory Service, further development of the HELPI system, interpretation of sign language of the inauguration of the academic year, installation of induction loops, room signage systems, and tactile maps.
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Digital accessibility – elimination of digital barriers, updating of standards, development of e-learning, organization of Digital Accessibility Day, thematic forum, monitoring, and audit of websites.
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Modern technologies – creation of an educational and technology park, development of a rental service for assistive devices for people with disabilities, purchase of an access ramp, optical and acoustic systems, and development of a technology plan.
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Procedures – monitoring and updating the university’s internal regulations, developing new procedures to enhance accessibility.
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Educational support services – including “Weekend with a Psychologist,” training in Polish Sign Language, development of electronic teaching materials, and support for students with disabilities in entering the job market.
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Increase awareness of disability by training university staff and student organizations, developing a training plan, and creating custom training programs tailored to the specific needs of a technical university.
Project Outcomes and Benefits
The project will benefit administrative, teaching, and technical staff, as well as representatives of student organizations—a total of more than 2,000 people.
Ultimately, all members of the academic community and applicants to AGH will benefit from increased accessibility, new technologies, and support services.
The project will result in improved educational quality, the elimination of architectural, informational, and digital barriers, and a lasting increase in staff competence with respect to working with people with disabilities.
Project Details
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Implementation period: March 2025 – February 2029
Project value: PLN 8,181,674.60
Contribution from European Funds: PLN 7,909,883.55