As the European Union continues to champion inclusion and accessibility, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) serves as a cornerstone for creating equitable opportunities across all sectors. Education and technology, particularly in higher education and vocational training, play vital roles in ensuring accessibility for people with disabilities. The intersection of policy, assistive technologies, and education provides a framework for building a more inclusive society.

To further this mission, AccessibleEU is hosting a workshop ahead of the 18th International Conference of the Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe (AAATE) at the European University Cyprus.

It will explore the role of higher education, vocational training, and assistive technologies in promoting accessibility, while identifying challenges and opportunities for policy and practice.

Objectives:

• Examine Integration: Investigate how higher education institutions and vocational training programs can effectively incorporate accessibility in their curricula and benefit from assistive technologies for students with disabilities
• Identify Policy Gaps: Highlight areas where current policies may fall short and propose actionable solutions to better align with the European Accessibility Act (EAA).
• Promote Stakeholder Collaboration: Encourage dialogue among educators, technologists, policymakers, and advocates to foster innovative and inclusive practices.
• Spotlight Challenges and Opportunities: Address barriers faced by students with disabilities while showcasing success stories and future possibilities.

Details on the event:

• Target audience: Higher education professionals and administrators. Vocational education and training providers. Researchers and developers in assistive technologies. Representatives from relevant public authorities. Students, advocates, and people with disabilities. Industry stakeholders.
• When: Tuesday, 9 September 2025
• Where: European University Cyprus. 6 Diogenous Str., Egkomi, 2404, Nicosia. Cyprus
• Format: Hybrid. The link for online attendance will be shared the day before the event.
• Type of event: Workshop and mutual learning session
• Language: English
• How to participate: Free registration
• Accessibility information: Accessible venue. Captioning in English and International Sign System.