Several AccessCoVE partners, including the University of Macedonia, the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH), the Polytechnic University of Turin, and Helenos Consulting, participated in a series of focus group sessions coordinated by Málaga TechPark during September and October. This was done as part of AccessCoVEs effort to improve Vocational Education and Training (VET) in accessibility. By facilitating discussions across relevant actors, new learning pathways informing the profiles of the Accessibility Certifier and Accessibility Consultant took place.
These sessions were designed to identify professional needs, validate training frameworks, and define certification criteria applicable across different sectors in Europe. They brought together more than 50 representatives from various fields, public authorities, companies, educational institutions, and international organizations. This opened a collaborative space for discussion on the future of accessibility professions.
Each session focused on a key sector, allowing for an in-depth analysis of training needs, evaluation criteria, and common challenges in accessibility education.
The discussions highlighted that both profiles are essential and complementary:
- The Accessibility Consultant supports institutions and companies in implementing accessibility measures.
- The Accessibility Certifier ensures compliance with standards and validates process quality.
Among the main challenges identified were fragmented regulations, lack of specialized training, and the perception of accessibility as a cost. To address these issues, participants proposed promoting the recognition of these professional profiles through new learning pathways and encouraging cooperation among institutions and sectors.
These working sessions contribute to the design of training courses and programs within the framework of the project, supporting a more inclusive, equitable, and accessible Europe for all.