Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD)
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Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) is an international initiative, celebrated annually, that aims to raise awareness about digital accessibility and inclusion. Since its creation in 2012, GAAD has mobilised millions of people worldwide to reflect on how technology can either enable or exclude individuals with disabilities. This year, INESC TEC joins this global movement by promoting internal reflection and engagement around accessibility.
Today, over one billion people worldwide live with some form of disability, many of whom still face significant barriers when interacting with digital tools, services and environments. Promoting accessibility is therefore not only a matter of compliance, but a key component of inclusive innovation and social responsibility. As a research and technology institution, INESC TEC plays a crucial role in shaping inclusive digital solutions.
To mark GAAD, the INESC TEC Commission for Diversity and Inclusion is organising the event “Experiencing Accessibility: Awareness, Barriers and Inclusion in Practice” on May 21st, 2026, at Auditorium A of INESC TEC's main building, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
The event aims to foster awareness of accessibility barriers and inclusive design principles by providing hands-on experiences and opportunities for reflection and discussion. Participants will be invited to explore how inaccessible environments, tools, interfaces and communication practices can unintentionally exclude people with diverse needs and abilities.
This event is open to the whole community. Participation is free, though registration is required for logistical purposes until May 17th.
Agenda*:
*You can take part in any activity, even if you cannot attend the full event.
- 01:00 pm – Hands-on, Experiential Workstations: Participants will explore interactive workstations demonstrating common accessibility barriers (20-30 min each workstation).
- 03:30 pm – Welcome and Introduction: Opening remarks by the Commission for Diversity and Inclusion.
- 03:40 pm – Roundtable Discussion: A moderated conversation with experts in accessibility, inclusive design, assistive technologies and digital inclusion.
- 04:30 pm – Closing and refreshments: An informal moment to exchange reflections while exploring examples of accessible and inaccessible event design.
The event will be held in English.