🚀 Barriers: How the Armenian Team Mastered AI and Accessibility in Sarajevo

From March 29 to April 5, 2025, Sarajevo became a hub for innovation and inclusion. Six participants from Armenia - Maria, Andranik, Anna, Natali, Elen, and their group leader Hayk, joined the Erasmus+ youth exchange "Alcess: Breaking Media Barriers." The project aimed to explore how technology can make media more accessible for everyone, especially for people with disabilities.

The journey began with a focus on connection. The first day was dedicated to getting to know each other and sharing experiences. Participants from different countries talked about the media landscapes in their home countries, creating a foundation for the week of collaboration ahead.

On the second day, the focus shifted to the core of the project: inclusivity. The sessions covered the challenges faced by people with disabilities and the international conventions that protect their rights. It was a day of learning about the legal and social aspects of accessibility, ensuring that everyone understood why inclusive media is so important.

The third day was the technical heart of the program. Hayk, acting as the project's AI Expert, led three intensive sessions. He guided the participants through the world of AI tools, discussed the vital ethics behind their use, and conducted a workshop on fact-checking in the age of automation. These sessions gave the team the practical skills needed to use AI responsibly and effectively.

Putting theory into practice, the fourth and fifth days were dedicated to content creation. Working in international teams, the Armenian participants developed media content that was fully accessible, using captions, audio descriptions, and AI-supported tools to ensure that no one is left behind.

It wasn’t all work, however. The team enjoyed a guided tour of Sarajevo, exploring the city’s rich and complex history, from Bascarsija to the bridges that symbolize the city's resilience. The cultural exchange continued during the evenings, where the Armenian team shared their traditions, food, and dances with their new friends.

For the Armenian delegation, "Alcess" was more than just a training; it was an empowering experience. By combining AI technology with a passion for human rights, Maria, Andranik, Anna, Natali, Elen, and Hayk returned home ready to advocate for a more inclusive and accessible media environment in Armenia.