Today's society is actively working towards establishing an inclusive environment where every individual, regardless of physical or mental characteristics, can realize their potential. A significant aspect of this process is the accessibility in education.

For individuals with special educational needs, this is not just an important factor, but a fundamental condition for receiving quality and accessible education. Accessibility in education means creating conditions where individuals with disabilities or other characteristics do not face barriers to accessing knowledge.

As part of the City Target Program “Equality” for 2023-2025, which will be renamed to “Barrier-Free Odessa”, and the Action Plan for 2023-2024 implementing the National Strategy for creating a barrier-free space in Ukraine until 2030, the following initiatives are underway:

- installation of ramps;

- major renovations of restrooms in educational institutions in Odessa to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities;

- providing preschool and general education institutions with free Wi-Fi access;

- ensuring high-speed internet and computer equipment for distance learning for vulnerable education seekers and teachers;

- training medical and educational staff in educational institutions on providing first aid to students with special educational needs (including those with epilepsy, etc.);

- organizing outreach activities for educators and parents to form a positive microclimate in educational institutions where children with special educational needs study.

For more detailed information about the Methodological Recommendations on ensuring the accessibility of educational institutions for low-mobility groups, you can refer here.