TBU in Zlín Significantly Improves Facilities for Students with Specific Needs
4. November 2026Easier access around the University, more accessible accommodation and a new space for rest and support. Tomas Bata University in Zlín (TBU) has completed the POSTUP project – Supporting Students with Specific Needs at TBU in Zlín – which has significantly expanded the opportunities available to students with specific needs, both in their studies and in their everyday university life. The University invested CZK 28.5 million in building modifications, equipment and improved facilities. The project was funded by the Jan Amos Komenský Operational Programme.
Improved Facilities in Student Halls of Residence
A significant part of the project focused on places where students spend much of their time – the University’s halls of residence. “At Hall U6, we have created an accessible flat for students with limited mobility, enabling them to live more independently and comfortably. At Hall U12, we have set up a relaxation room for students with specific needs, providing a space where they can rest and recharge,” explains Michal Navrátil, Director of TBU Halls of Residence and Refectory.
Accessibility as an Integral Part of the University Environment
The aim was not simply to remove individual barriers, but to improve accessibility across the University as a whole. The modifications therefore covered selected faculty and other University buildings, halls of residence and facilities specifically designed for students with specific needs.
“We want every student to feel like a full and valued member of the academic community, without unnecessary barriers in the environment where they study and live. The POSTUP project is an important step towards making TBU more accessible and inclusive for all students. This is about more than individual building modifications: we are creating conditions that will make everyday life easier for students throughout their studies,” says Petra Jungová, Bursar of Tomas Bata University in Zlín.
Fewer Barriers, More Opportunities
The project has delivered a range of improvements to make it easier for students to move around and find their way within University buildings. These include step-free entrances, upgraded lifts, automatic door-opening systems and improved signage and wayfinding.
Better facilities have also been provided for students with hearing impairments. The University has increased the number of induction loop systems in lecture rooms, making communication easier for people who use hearing aids or cochlear implants.
The POSTUP project has therefore brought improvements across the University – from access to buildings and movement within them to studying, accommodation and relaxation.
“Accessibility is not a one-off project for us. It is an integral part of our long-term vision for the development of the University. Investing in barrier-free access, technology and support facilities is important not only today but also for the future. A university should be a place where talent, motivation and the desire to learn matter most, rather than unnecessary obstacles standing in students’ way,” adds TBU Rector Milan Adámek.
TBU’s Centre for Special Needs Students was established in 2015. It provides services for students with visual, hearing or mobility impairments, as well as those with learning difficulties, autism spectrum conditions and other challenges.
“The University currently has around 250 students with various specific needs on record. The largest groups include students with learning difficulties, chronic physical health conditions and mental health difficulties,” concludes Adriana Knápková, TBU Vice-Rector for Development.
