AccessCat, the new network to carry out programmes for the valorisation and transfer of research results in accessibility to information and communication
The AccessCat network has been launched, with the participation of Nodes.
It is an R+D+I network funded by the Department of Research and Universities of the Generalitat de Catalunya, to carry out programmes for the valorisation and transfer of research results in accessibility to information and communication. On 23 February, the first meeting of the Board of the Accessibility Innovation Network of Catalonia: Media, Education and Culture (AccessCat Network) took place. This network is made up of 12 research groups from 8 different institutions that bring together 175 researchers. The coordinating entity is the UAB, which participates with the TransMedia Catalonia and AFIN groups. The participating institutions are the UB (the CLiC and DIDPATRI research groups), the UPF (the GTI, TALN and TRADILEX research groups), the UPC (the QURBIS research group), the URV (the Language and Technology research group), the UOC (the NODES research group), the UVic-UCC (the TRATO research group) and the i2Cat Foundation (the MiA research group).
Beginning 1 January 2023, and for a period of three years, the AccessCat network will work to become a benchmark in the field of accessibility to information and communication, especially in the fields of culture, education and the media, and will promote transfer and innovation activities. Some of the activities planned are: offering a portfolio of services from the network’s research groups, making research and training in the field visible through the MAP (the Media Accessibility Platform), and offering training to companies and external entities on accessibility to information and communication, as well as demonstrations or showcases that serve to raise awareness and propose solutions in the field of accessibility. The network will offer its members support in seeking disruptive solutions to accessibility-related problems, to raise awareness on accessibility, to internationalise research and to participate in international missions, fairs and transfer actions.