Through Accessibility to Academic Excellence: ISW 2026 at Jagiellonian University, P[oland

15 June 2026, 12 pm

Through Accessibility to Academic Excellence: Reflections from the Opening Day of International Staff Week 2026 at Jagiellonian University

The International Staff Week 2026, titled “Through Accessibility to Academic Excellence,” officially commenced on 18 May 2026 at the historic Jagiellonian University in Kraków, Poland. Bringing together participants from different universities and international networks, the event was designed to foster dialogue, exchange experiences, and explore innovative approaches to accessibility in higher education.

Although my participation was limited to the opening day, the experience proved to be intellectually enriching and professionally inspiring. The programme highlighted how accessibility is increasingly recognized not only as a technical or administrative requirement, but also as a fundamental social value within modern academic institutions.

A Prestigious Opening at Collegium Novum

The first day of the Staff Week was held in the Assembly Hall (Aula) of Collegium Novum, located at 24 Gołębia Street in the heart of Kraków. As the most representative hall of Jagiellonian University, the Aula offered a remarkable setting for the opening ceremony. The historic interior, characterized by its coffered ceiling, rich colours, and artworks by the renowned Polish painter Jan Matejko, created an atmosphere that reflected both academic tradition and cultural heritage.

Participants were warmly welcomed by members of the organizing team, who assisted guests from the main entrance and guided them to the Assembly Hall using either the stairs or elevator, demonstrating from the outset the university’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

The programme began with registration and a welcome coffee session, allowing participants to meet informally and establish initial professional connections. The official opening followed, featuring welcoming remarks and keynote presentations focused on the role of accessibility in higher education.

Accessibility as a Core Academic Value

One of the most significant moments of the opening session was the keynote address delivered by Prof. Jarosław Górniak, Vice-Rector for International Relations at Jagiellonian University. His presentation, “Accessibility as Social Value at the Jagiellonian University,” emphasized that accessibility should be viewed not merely as infrastructure adaptation, but as a broader commitment to equality, participation, and academic excellence.

The presentation of the Jagiellonian University Accessibility Centre further demonstrated the institution’s comprehensive approach toward supporting individuals with specific needs. The Centre’s initiatives reflect a growing international understanding that accessible education environments benefit not only students and staff with disabilities, but the entire academic community.

Another important segment introduced the role of Una Europa and international academic networks in promoting cooperation and accessibility across European universities. These discussions highlighted how international partnerships can contribute to the development of inclusive educational standards and collaborative innovation.

Exchange of Perspectives and Professional Dialogue

A particularly engaging part of the programme focused on the eUniverse project module in the context of accessibility. Participants were invited to present perspectives from their own institutions and discuss how accessibility is understood and implemented in contemporary universities.

The discussions revealed that accessibility today extends far beyond physical infrastructure. It includes digital accessibility, inclusive teaching methodologies, assistive technologies, equitable participation in international mobility programmes, and the creation of supportive academic environments for individuals with diverse needs.

The exchange of experiences among participants created a valuable platform for mutual learning and reflection. It became evident that universities across different countries are facing similar challenges while also developing innovative solutions adapted to their local contexts.

Networking Through Culture and Inclusion

The day concluded with an evening dinner and networking meeting at the Jagiellonian University Accessibility Centre on Mickiewicz Avenue. The informal atmosphere encouraged open conversation and professional networking among participants.

An especially memorable element of the evening was the accompanying exhibition showcasing tactile adaptations and relief graphics prepared for people with specific needs. The exhibition included adaptations of selected objects from the JU Museum Collegium Maius collection created as part of the Touch Culture initiative. Participants also had the opportunity to explore tactile graphics and descriptive materials designed for people with visual disabilities.

This exhibition served as a practical demonstration of how accessibility can intersect with culture, education, and technology to create more inclusive academic experiences. It highlighted the importance of designing educational and cultural materials that can be accessed and appreciated by individuals with diverse sensory abilities.

Reflections on the Opening Day

Even though I attended only the first day of the International Staff Week 2026, the experience offered meaningful insights into the evolving understanding of accessibility within higher education. The programme successfully combined academic discussion, institutional practice, cultural inclusion, and international cooperation.

The opening day demonstrated that accessibility is not simply about removing barriers, but about creating environments where all individuals can participate fully in academic and social life. The commitment shown by Jagiellonian University illustrates how higher education institutions can play a leading role in promoting inclusion, diversity, and equal opportunities.

Participating in this event provided valuable inspiration for future professional practice and strengthened the understanding that accessibility is an essential component of academic excellence in the modern university environment.

Conclusion

The International Staff Week 2026 at Jagiellonian University opened with a powerful message: accessibility must remain central to the future development of higher education. Through thoughtful presentations, international dialogue, and practical demonstrations of inclusive practices, the first day created a meaningful platform for learning and collaboration.

Although my participation was limited to the opening sessions, the experience left a lasting impression and reinforced the importance of continued international cooperation in building more accessible and inclusive universities for all.

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