At the International Hellenic University (IHU), the Accessibility Unit for Persons with Disabilities and Persons with Special Educational Needs is in operation. This Unit serves as the Institution’s Reference Point for monitoring the implementation of the relevant provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. The Unit is also responsible for preparing and submitting proposals and legislative recommendations, for the optimal implementation of the National Convention in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), as well as an annual progress report, to the Sub-Reference Point of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs, as outlined in Article 71 of Law 4488/2017 (A’ 137). Furthermore, it conducts consultations with members of the academic community with disabilities on these matters.

The mission of the Accessibility Unit for Persons with Disabilities and Persons with Special Educational Needs is to ensure the full participation of university community members, with disabilities or special educational needs, in all educational, research and administrative activities carried out by IHU.

Specifically, the responsibilities of the Unit include:

• Implementing the University’s equal access plan;
• Supporting the Equal Access Committee, as defined in Article 220 of Law 4957/2022 in fulfilling its responsibilities;
• Monitoring National and European legislation and strategies regarding the rights of people with disabilities;
• Supporting access to the educational process, especially by providing accessible textbooks, educational materials, and interpretation services;
• Supporting alternative methods of assessment, for students with disabilities or special educational needs, tailored to their specific needs and educational abilities;
• Providing individual assistive information technologies and facilitating digital accessibility;
• Supporting the participation of individuals with disabilities or special educational needs in research, projects/programmes, carried out through the Special Account for Research Funds (ELKE), as well as in conferences, workshops, decision-making bodies, student assemblies, artistic and sports activities;
• Ensuring digital communication for resolving administrative matters concerning individuals with disabilities or special educational needs;
• Ensuring and facilitating physical accessibility for people with disabilities, particularly through transportation and escort services;
• Providing psychological and emotional support and guidance for individuals with disabilities and special educational needs;
• Collaborating with Liaison Officers to support students with disabilities and special educational needs;
• Maintaining statistical data related to disability and accessibility of the University’s infrastructure and services;
• Carrying out any other responsibilities defined by the University’s organizational regulations that are related to the scope of the Accessibility Unit.

Internal Operating Regulation of the Accessibility Unit

Equal Access Committee for Persons with Disabilities and Persons with Special Educational Needs

Liaison Officers of the Accessibility Unit

Designated Secretarial Staff Members