An open unique lecture called “Universal design and creating a barrier-free environment for disabled citizens” has been held on November 5, 2014 in the main hall of the faculty of architecture of the Kyiv National University of construction and architecture in the framework of the project “Ensuring right to an accessible environment for people with disability” implemented by Kiev Municipal League of Public Organizations of People with Disabilities together with World Jewish Relief foundation (WJR).

Over a hundred of architecture students from different years of study, post-graduate students and teachers have come to meet the guests.
The guests were greeted by: the Dean of the faculty of architecture, professor Alexander Kashchenko and the head of the department, the developer of many Ukrainian norms, professor Vadim Kutsevich. In his introductory remarks, the Dean noted that the presented information will work for development of architectural creativity and humanization of architecture. “Our goal is to create a barrier-free environment in which all people can effectively live, work and relax.”

There were also held presentations by: Alexander Vorona, the President of –Kiev Municipal League of Public Organizations of People with Disabilities, Christina Baghramyan, the manager of the program “Promotion of integration policy and services for people with disabilities in Ukraine” which is administered by UNDP. Absolute attention of the audience was possessed be the expert on this subject, Oleg Polozek. Seven rules of universal design disclosed by him should become an obligatory part of the training for architects and designers.

A lot of people who were present there for the first time thought about the real accessibility of our environment. Further projects now have to testify this.

This event should become the beginning of a long-term cooperation in the form of regular presentations, discussions, student participation in real projects.