Project Description
The project aims to address the challenges faced by studends with special educational needs in accessing employment opportunities and becoming independent, productive members of society. The project's objectives align with the priorities of the Erasmus+ Programme, particularly focusing on vocational education and training (VET) and equal access to the labor market.
Key Objectives:
Inclusion: Integrating studends with special educational needs into community life.
Collaboration: Facilitating connections between individuals with mental disabilities and employers.
Empowerment: Enhancing self-confidence and productivity among mentally disabled individuals.
Training: Providing vocational training relevant to employment opportunities.
Awareness: Increasing social awareness and breaking down prejudices regarding employment of mentally handicapped individuals.
Institutional Improvement: Enhancing the functionality of partner institutions and fostering cooperation between them.
Sharing Best Practices: Sharing successful employment practices and activities.
Skills Development: Improving participants' knowledge, skills, and competencies in vocational education and employment.
Collaboration Skills: Enhancing collaborative working skills of participants.
Technological Proficiency: Developing participants' skills in using information technologies.
Language Skills: Improving participants' language skills.
Cultural Exchange: Exposing participants to new cultures.
Fight Against Discrimination: Supporting efforts to combat discrimination.
International Identity: Providing participants with an international perspective.
Strategic Goal: Contributing to the internationalization strategy of participating institutions.
Participants:
Turkey, Eskisehir
Portugal, Seixal
Our meetings:
“Be aware of me” - 06-08/03/2024
During our stay in Turkey, we had the opportunity to familiarize ourselves with the functioning of the country's education system. We also participated in engaging workshops, where we shared our experiences and exchanged best practices in integrating individuals with diverse educational needs into social life and supporting their employment in the open labor market.
One of the key points of the program was visiting the Employment Office, where we learned about the stages of support offered to individuals with special educational needs. Additionally, we had the opportunity to visit a restaurant that employs individuals with diverse needs, which served as an inspiring example of social integration.
There was also time to explore the culture, visit landmarks and taste traditional Turkish dishes.
“I’m Useful With What I Now” -
05-07/06/2024
05-07/06/2024
From June 5th to 7th, 2024, representatives from schools in Greece, Portugal, Turkey, Romania, and Poland took part in the next meeting of the EU Erasmus+ project "Special Colours of Life." The main goal of both the project and the meeting was to exchange experiences and best practices regarding the inclusion of people with diverse educational needs in social life and to explore ways of supporting their employment in the open labor market.
During the three-day stay in Kavala, participants had the opportunity to learn about the Greek education system and take part in activities prepared for them. In the music workshops, guided by the hosts, we created musical instruments, which were later used for a group performance and for learning songs from the countries participating in the project. In the art workshops, we made handmade paper, learned about pictograms representing emotions, and explored techniques for expressing feelings through art.
We also visited the Employment Office in Kavala, where we learned about the institution's operations and methods of supporting graduates and individuals with special educational needs in finding jobs. The actions taken to provide vocational training suited to employment opportunities, combat discrimination, and break stereotypes about hiring people with disabilities were also discussed.
During our stay in Kavala, we reviewed the progress of the project and discussed upcoming tasks. Our time in Greece offered a wonderful chance to explore the country’s rich history, culture, and traditions. We also had the privilege of experiencing the warm openness and hospitality of the Greek people. It was an unforgettable experience.
Next meetings:
18-20/09/2024 “Let’s Work Together” - Portugal, Seixal (Escola Secundária Dr. José Afonso)
25-27/03/2025 “My Story” - Poland, Rybnik (Zespół Szkół nr 6 w Rybniku)
05-07/06/2025 “The Best For Me” - Romania, Bals (Scoala Profesionala Speciala Bals)
Social media:
Special Colors of Life
Erasmus+
Project number: 2023-1-EL01-KA210-VET-000159236