Joachim Klaus

Joachim Klaus
Karlsruher Institut für Technologie,
Studienzentrum für Sehgeschädigte

Joachim Klaus is one of the first pioneers who worked on removing the barriers on the scientific and technological education of blind students. In 1986, he started at the Technical University (now: Institute of Technology) Karlsruhe inside the Faculty of Informatics with a special programme “Informatics for the Blind” dedicated to open new study and professional possibilities for visually impaired people by consequently using the new information and communication technologies. He is the Head and Founder of the “Centre for Open and Distance Learning” since 1990 and Head of the institutionalized “Counselling and Guidance Centre” at the University in Karlsruhe, from 1976 to 1993. From 1998 to 2000, Joachim Klaus was the President of FEDORA (Forum Europeen de l’Orientation Academique / European Forum for Student Guidance). Since 1993, Joachim Klaus was the Managing Director of the “Study Centre for Blind and Partially Sighted Students“ at what is today Karlsruhe Institute of Technology. He headed and cooperated in various programmes of the European Commission. He was a member in different regional, national and international associations and working groups. He initiated and participated in national and international conferences and congresses.