The Metropolitan University of Education, Science and Technology participated in the practical workshop on the use and implementation of the National Plan for Universal Accessibility of the Republic of Panama 2022-2032, developed by the National Secretariat for Disability on August 6, 2026.

UMECIT's participation was in response to a formal invitation issued by SENADIS through Note No. 523-SENADIS-DG-DEO-2026, addressed to the University Rector, Dr. José Alberto Nieto Rojas. The event was held in the Training Room of the National Certification Directorate.

The meeting brought together representatives from public and private institutions with the purpose of strengthening the knowledge and implementation of the National Universal Accessibility Plan as a strategic management tool for governance, coordination and the progressive reduction of barriers.

The National Plan for Accessible Panama (PNAUP), adopted by Executive Decree No. 5 of April 25, 2024, establishes the national roadmap for progressing towards an accessible Panama by 2032. Its structure includes six strategic pillars related to the legal framework, management and governance, environments, and

services, participation, awareness and training, as well as new frontiers and innovation in universal accessibility.

During the workshop, it was emphasized that accessibility goes beyond simply adapting physical spaces. It also encompasses the processes, services, tools, technologies, and forms of communication that must enable the participation of all people in conditions of safety, autonomy, equity, and respect.

For UMECIT, this experience represents an opportunity to continue strengthening inclusion as a shared commitment of the entire university community. Its implementation requires an institutional perspective that recognizes diversity, prevents barriers, and creates conditions that promote access, participation, retention, and academic advancement for students.

The knowledge acquired contributes to strengthening the institutional model of Inclusive Care and Educational Support Management, aimed at providing organized, confidential and timely responses to identified needs, respecting the voluntary declaration of each person and promoting the application of reasonable support and adjustments when appropriate.

This vision is consistent with the Management System for Educational Organizations under the ISO 21001 standard, especially in relation to the student-centered approach, equity, accessibility, attention to educational needs, participation and continuous improvement.

At UMECIT, we understand that inclusion is not the responsibility of any single entity. It is everyone's responsibility and is embodied in the way we teach, communicate, support, plan, and build the university experience.

The University thanks the National Secretariat for Disability for the invitation and for the guidance provided during this day, which strengthens institutional capacities and allows us to continue moving towards a more accessible, equitable and diversity-respecting education.

Learn about Panama's National Universal Accessibility Plan 2022-2032:
https://www.senadis.gob.pa/documentos/DOCS-2023/08-PNAUP_DIGITAL_accesible-2025_v3.pdf

Learn about UMECIT's Inclusive Education Program:
https://umecit.edu.pa/programa-de-bienestar/programa-de-educacion-inclusiva/