An expert working group has been established at the Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture (KNUCA): “KNUCA Accessibility”. It is led by Artem Honcharenko, PhD — head of the Institute for Reintegration, Rehabilitation and Professional Development of Veterans “Architecture of Resilience” at KNUCA.

The working group combines an expert approach to architecture, design, construction, education, inclusion and social participation. It is conceived as a platform where professional solutions are tested not only against drawings but also against the needs of the people who use the space and services every day.

Mission of the working group

To contribute to the formation of a systemic accessible environment in Ukraine through analysis of barriers, interdisciplinary expertise, development of competencies, scientific and methodological work and cooperation with stakeholders.

We aim for accessibility to become an integral part of the terms of reference, the educational program, the management decision and the reconstruction project, rather than an additional requirement at the end of the work.

Leadership

Artem Honcharenko, PhD — head of the expert working group “KNUCA Accessibility”. Head of the Veterans Institute “Architecture of Resilience” of KNUCA; a scientist and manager working at the intersection of veterans’ policy, education, environmental safety, sustainable development, reconstruction and universal design.

Main tasks

To analyse barriers in the architectural, educational, digital and social environment.
To develop interdisciplinary expert positions, methodological recommendations and proposals for improvements.
To support the application of universal design principles when developing new solutions and modernising existing spaces.
To involve veterans, people with disabilities and other users in discussing and assessing solutions.
To develop the professional competencies of architects, engineers, teachers, managers and community representatives.
To promote joint research, pilot projects and international exchange of practices.

Way of working

Depending on the topic and the powers of the participants, expert meetings, thematic consultations, working meetings with communities, analysis of project documentation, site visits, educational events and partner research may be used. The specific scope of work is determined separately for each request.

Expert competencies

Specialists in architecture, urban planning, structural solutions, transport infrastructure, rehabilitation, ergonomics, educational inclusion, digital accessibility, law, community management and public communications may be involved in the cooperation.

Principle of participation: “Nothing about us without us.” People affected by a decision must be involved in defining the problem, testing, and assessing the result.

Invitation to cooperate

If you represent a community, a university, a company, an organisation of people with disabilities or an international programme, propose a question for expert review or a joint initiative. Send a short description of the problem, the desired outcome and the contact details of the responsible person.

Expert Working Group “KNUCA Accessibility”