From June 22–26, 2026, an international educational BIP (Blended Intensive Programme) entitled Designing a University for All took place in Tomar, Portugal. The event, focused on inclusion and diversity, was organized by the Polytechnic University of Tomar as a follow-up to the activities of the KreativEU alliance working group, of which the University of South Bohemia is also a proud member.
The opening workshop, Introduction to Accessibility and Practices, addressed accessibility not only as a technical or organizational measure, but as a key component of broader institutional culture.
Further parts of the intensive programme focused on specific areas that universities address in their daily practice. Participants attended a series of specialized workshops:
- Accessibility in Digital Spaces: Focused on the accessibility of digital tools and online environments.
- Accessibility in Pedagogy: Concentrated on inclusive teaching, adapting pedagogical methods, and effectively supporting students with specific needs.
- Inclusive Communication (Make Invisible Visible and IPT Inclusive Communication): Emphasized the need for clear, respectful, and accessible communication within the university and towards the public.
The programme also included practical activities outside the university setting. Participants visited important historical sites in Tomar (such as the Convent of Christ, the Levada Complex, the former Fundição Power Station, and the local synagogue), where they discussed accessibility directly on site.
These excursions demonstrated that accessibility is not limited to teaching, university buildings, or digital systems, but also extends to public spaces, cultural heritage, and how institutions make their services accessible to different groups of users.
“The programme was particularly valuable in linking the strategic dimension of inclusion and diversity with concrete situations from university practice. We had the opportunity to share experiences with colleagues from partner institutions, compare different approaches, and discuss how to create environments that are truly accessible and safe for diverse groups of students and staff,” said Lenka Šedová, Vice-Rector for External Relations, Sustainability and Human Resources Development at the University of South Bohemia.
Discussions highlighted that each country and institution approaches integration and diversity within different legislative, cultural, and organizational contexts. The topic is also closely connected to the issue of social safety, which is currently a prominent concern across all participating countries.
A major benefit of the programme were the practical workshops, where participants—including both academic staff and professionals supporting students with specific needs—could personally experience what it is like to study with a physical limitation or barrier.
Participation in the programme represented a valuable opportunity for the University of South Bohemia to share experiences internationally and gain inspiration for further developing an inclusive, respectful, and safe academic environment. The insights gained will be fully applied in future efforts related to student support, accessible teaching, inclusive communication, and the strategic integration of diversity at the university level.
The programme, which combines in-person and online components, will officially conclude with a final online meeting on July 14, 2026.
Participants included:
- Lenka Šedová, Vice-Rector (USB)
- Miluše Vítečková, Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Education (USB)
- Myroslava Tomashevska (Faculty of Education, USB)
- Veronika Zvánovcová (Faculty of Theology, USB)
The issue of accessibility at the University of South Bohemia is addressed by the Centre for Equal Opportunities. More information on the University Counselling Centre, Career Centre, Support Centre for Students with Specific Needs, Social Security, and Gender Equality is available HERE.
