Twelve universities and Krakow Municipality join forces for accessibility

The event was held at the Cracow University of Technology as part of Krakow Integration Days, an annual initiative of Krakow universities that discusses accessibility, inclusivity, and modern solutions that support people with disabilities in academia. On behalf of AGH University, the event was attended by Professor Jerzy Lis, Rector; Professor Rafał Dańko, Vice-Rector for Student Affairs; and Dr Szczepan Moskwa, head of the Accessibility Department.

Agreement on cooperation

The document was signed by Aleksander Miszalski, Mayor of the City of Krakow, as well as rectors and representatives of 12 universities: AGH University of Krakow, University of Physical Culture in Krakow, Academy of Fine Arts, National Academy of Theatre Arts in Krakow, the Cracow University of Technology, Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski University, Krakow University of Economics, Ignatianum University in Cracow, Jagiellonian University in Kraków, University of the National Education Commission, Pontifical University of John Paul II in Krakow, and the University of Agriculture in Krakow.

The parties have committed to working together to support people with disabilities and special needs, including co-organising events on accessibility such as Krakow Integration Days, carrying out joint promotional campaigns, assisting in establishing cooperation between universities and secondary schools, as well as organising joint research and undertaking activities aimed at empowering people with disabilities.

The new document has replaced previous agreements that date back to 2007. At that time, three universities – Cracow University of Technology, AGH University and Krakow University of Economics – signed Poland’s first inter-university agreement coordinating efforts to make academia accessible to people with disabilities. Over the course of 19 years, further institutions and the city council have gradually joined the group of signatories.

Integralia awards

The conference also saw the presentation of Integralia awards, recognising both individuals and organisations that are committed to promoting accessibility and the inclusion of students with disabilities in Krakow’s academic and cultural life.

This year, the main prize went to AGH University and the AGH University Student and Alumni Foundation Academica for the organisation of initiatives such as the national meetings of students with disabilities, integration campfires for students and staff at Krakow’s universities, training and integration camps, sports days for people with disabilities, co-organisation of sign language courses and publication of a Krakow magazine for disabled people.

The award was also presented to sixteen university employees, including three from AGH University.