Digital Accessibility in Inclusive Lifelong Learning for Adults with Disabilities: Case of Baku, Azerbaijan

Abstract

Inclusive lifelong learning is essential in supporting social inclusion, participation equally, and personal growth. In modern digital transformation era, access to education significantly depends on digital technologies. This makes digital accessibility and skills essential for active participation. However, adults with disabilities most of time face serious barriers when they try to access digital learning environments. This study explores what are the effects of digital accessibility of adults with disabilities on the participation in lifelong learning in Baku, Azerbaijan. A qualitative approach was used based on semi-structured interviews with 22 participants. These participants include adults with disabilities, teachers, representatives from governments and non-governmental organizations. The findings show several digital barriers limit participation, such as inaccessible platforms or websites, shortage of assistive tools, limited digital skills, and weak support from the institutional side. However, digital learning gives valuable opportunities for inclusion, flexibility, and independence of adults with disabilities in inclusive lifelong learning. In order to achieve inclusive lifelong learning in Baku, it is necessary to put great focus on improving digital accessibility, developing digital skills, and ensuring better coordinated policy implementation.