The ‘DUO II Project: University of Silesia – Accessible, Universal, and Open’ is to increase the awareness and improve competencies in terms of academic accessibility, and promote the rules for universal design in academic community.
Implemented from 2025 to 2029, the project is funded by the European Funds for Social Development Programme within the European Funds for Śląsk (Silesia) 2021-2027, Measure 3.1: Accessibility of Higher Education. Its aim is to create a more open, accessible and inclusive environment for all members of the academic community – especially for people with disabilities and those with other special needs.
We focus on 8 areas of accessibility:
- Organisational structure
- Architectural accessibility
- Information and communication accessibility
- Digital accessibility
- Technology
- Procedures
- Services supporting education
- Disability awareness activities
The DUO II Project is a continuation of the previous project called DUO Project – the University of Silesia – Accessible, Universal and Open. The new edition expands the scope of activities and introduces innovative solutions aimed at more effectively removing barriers to education and supporting full participation in academic life.
The project will cover:
- improving the infrastructural, digital, ICT and technological accessibility of the university;
- training sessions, courses and workshops on accessibility and universal design for teaching and administrative staff;
- Polish and international study visits that will allow participants to explore best practices in academic accessibility, exchange experiences with other universities, and learn from institutions implementing inclusive solutions;
- activities to integrate the academic community, including INKLUWeek organised as part of the adaptation week;
- changes in organisation and procedures to support inclusiveness;
- implementation of modern tools supporting independence and comfort in studying.
DUO II is not merely an educational project and expansion of space adapted to the people with special needs – it is an initiative that fosters the culture of openness, mutual respect and equal opportunities. It makes the University of Silesia a university that responds to contemporary educational challenges, promotes equity and equality and actively supports all its members, regardless of their needs and abilities.
More information about the project at duo.us.edu.pl.
Visit the DUO II Project website and see how we are creating a university that is accessible to all!
#FunduszeEuropejskie #FunduszeUE
Project Overview
- Implementation period: 1 March 2025 – 28 February 2029
- Funding:
-
- Total expenditure: PLN 8,156,513.20
- Funding: PLN 7,911,817.80
Priority: FERS.03 Accessibility and Services for Persons with Disabilities. Measure 3.1: Accessibility in Higher Education. European Funds for Śląskie 2021–2027 Programme
Photo by Julia Agnieszka Szymala