For the seventh time, the BhW Lower Austria, a training institution for adults, honored the winners of the "Model Accessibility" competition at a celebratory event. Under the patronage of State Councilor Christiane Teschl-Hofmeister and State Councilor Anton Kasser, outstanding initiatives that demonstrate a special commitment to removing barriers and promoting inclusion were honored in six categories.
In the category of Culture and Tourism, the Beethovenhaus Baden was awarded for the project “Inclusion in the Museum – Offers on the Topic of Deafness,” which opens up new access to culture.
The "Sound Without Borders" project at the Beethovenhaus Baden addresses the topic of deafness and offers special events, digital guides in Austrian Sign Language, and guided tours in cooperation with the deaf association WITAF. The program is complemented by workshops, Austrian Sign Language courses, and lectures. There are special educational programs especially for school classes that raise young people's awareness of the topic at an early stage. The jury praised the successful connection to Beethoven's life, the comprehensive awareness-raising, and the variety of inclusive offerings.
Accessibility is a key to an inclusive society. It enables everyone – regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive limitations – equal access to education, work, information, buildings, and leisure activities. For around one-fifth of the population, accessibility is a basic requirement; for half, it's a valuable support – and for everyone, it increases comfort and quality of life. Accessible design removes barriers, strengthens self-determination, and creates an environment in which everyone can actively and equally participate in social life.
With the Barrier-Free Award, the BhW Lower Austria honored people, communities and institutions that have made a significant contribution to removing barriers and creating equal access for all.
"What is being honored here are real models for the future that show how we can make Lower Austria more inclusive step by step", emphasized State Councilor Anton Kasser. State Councilor Christiane Teschl-Hofmeister added: "These projects make accessibility visible and a matter of course. They provide inspiration and serve as role models for how participation can be successful in all areas of life.“
BhW Lower Austria GmbH is an adult education institution characterized by a broad spectrum of community-oriented educational work. The activities of BhW Lower Austria, in close cooperation with the volunteer-run educational institutions of the BHW Association, improve the educational and learning culture in Lower Austria, its regions, and municipalities.
Educational and advisory services benefit those interested in education, those with limited access to education, or those in need of basic education. Municipalities are advised on accessibility and adult education. BhW Niederösterreich GmbH also develops specific learning opportunities and learning and awareness-raising materials in the areas of accessibility, literacy, information and media literacy, educational and career counseling, community education, and basic and primary education.