The Equal Accessibility Unit of the Technical University of Crete is a key institutional structure dedicated to ensuring the full and equal participation of all students in academic life, regardless of disability or any barriers that may hinder access to learning and university infrastructure. Participation in education signifies and substantially contributes to the professional development of individuals. At the same time, it shapes the position and behavior of everyone within the social environment, as well as their relationships with their family and the wider community. Higher education, in particular, is in most cases the final stage before entering the labor market and represents the major transition in daily life from adolescence to adulthood. At this stage, it is especially difficult for individuals who already face challenges such as disabilities, learning difficulties, or other issues, as they are called upon to assume responsibilities they are often not yet prepared to handle. Within this context, the primary goals of the Unit are to improve the services provided to students with disabilities, students with special educational needs, and the broader community of the Technical University of Crete, including academic, research, technical, and administrative staff.
The Unit’s core objectives include:
Supporting students with disabilities and/or special educational needs by providing tailored solutions (e.g., assistive technologies, adapted examination procedures, technical aids).
Ensuring accessibility in both physical and digital university environments.
Raising awareness and promoting inclusion, equality, and accessibility within the academic community.
Collaborating with faculty, administrative services, and external organizations to develop and implement best practices for student support.
The Unit serves as a support and empowerment network for students, promoting the concept of equality not only as a legal obligation but as a core value of the academic environment. Through its actions, the Technical University of Crete strengthens social cohesion, embraces diversity, and advances accessibility in higher education.