Introductory Speech at the Opening of the “COMMUNICATION WITHOUT BARRIERS” Educational and Methodological Centres under the Erasmus+ AMUSE Project (22, 24–25.06.2026, Sumy / Poltava / online)
On 22, 24–25 June 2026, the team from the National Erasmus+ Office – Ukraine participated in the opening ceremonies of the “COMMUNICATION WITHOUT BARRIERS” Educational and Methodological Centres, established within the framework of the Erasmus+ KA2 Capacity Building in Higher Education Project “Comprehensive Implementation of the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Methodology into the Education System of Ukraine (AMUSE)”. The events took place at Sumy Makarenko State Pedagogical University, H. S. Skovoroda Kharkiv National Pedagogical University (hosted in Poltava), and V. G. Korolenko Poltava National Pedagogical University.
The newly established centres aim to promote inclusive education in Ukraine by introducing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methodologies into educational practice, enhancing the professional development of educators, and creating accessible learning environments for learners with diverse communication needs. Within the project, the participating universities have been equipped with modern facilities, specialised software, and educational resources to support training, teaching, and the development of inclusive educational practices.
The opening events brought together representatives of higher education institutions, public authorities, project partners, civil society organisations, educators, students, parents, and other stakeholders. The programme included presentations of the centres’ activities, demonstrations of AAC tools and equipment, and discussions on advancing inclusive and barrier-free education in Ukraine.
As part of the opening ceremonies, Svitlana SHYTIKOVA, Coordinator of the National Erasmus+ Office – Ukraine, delivered an introductory speech, highlighting the contribution of the EU Erasmus+ Programme to supporting educational innovation, international cooperation, and institutional development. She emphasised the importance of Erasmus+ Capacity Building in Higher Education projects in promoting inclusive education, introducing innovative teaching approaches, strengthening international partnerships, and supporting the modernisation of higher education in Ukraine.