KA1 VET - “Good practices for inclusive VET for students with SEN” - Velingrad, November 2023

In November 2023, the Erasmus+ KA1 VET project “Good Practices for Inclusive VET for Students with SEN” brought educators from Velingrad, Bulgaria, to Italy to exchange knowledge and experiences in vocational training for students with special educational needs (SEN). Hosted by Associazione Luce and supported by Amicigio, the visit showcased innovative approaches to inclusivity and professional development.

The educators, including Emilia Momchilova Kadyova, Desislava Antimova Yurukuva, and Nikolay Kirilov Meshkov, among others, explored hands-on training methods in three key areas: culinary arts, woodworking, and gardening. Working with students aged 7 to 20, the Bulgarian delegation witnessed impactful practices that could inspire similar initiatives in their local context.

A highlight of the program was a collaborative event with PizzAut, an Italian association dedicated to promoting inclusion for individuals with autism. Founded by Nico Acampora, PizzAut operates the first pizzeria in Italy fully staffed by autistic individuals, showcasing their talents and empowering them through meaningful employment. The event emphasized the importance of vocational opportunities in building an inclusive society.

Watch the event with PizzAut here, where the collaboration fostered a powerful message of unity and possibility, resonating with participants and audiences alike.

As Gabriella Bortolotto, president of APS Luce, remarked: “Amicigio, with its mission, is a source of inspiration for meaningful change.” This sentiment was echoed by all involved, highlighting the importance of initiatives like this in transforming vocational education into a tool for empowerment and inclusion.

By combining practical training, cultural exchange, and inclusive practices, the project demonstrated how international collaboration can inspire new approaches to vocational education, benefiting students with SEN and creating a more inclusive future.