An inclusive training and education center has been established at the Baku State Vocational Education Center for Culture and Crafts

Within the framework of the "SkillBridge - Inclusive Education for Inclusive Employment" project, an Inclusive Training and Education Center has been established at the Baku State Vocational Education Center for Culture and Crafts.

As reported by BAKU.WS, the opening ceremony was attended by Alyona Aliyeva, Deputy Minister of Science and Education Firudin Gurbanov, Head of the Executive Authority of Khazar District Elshan Salakhov, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Indira Hajiyeva, Executive Director of SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC Polad Rustamov, Member of the Milli Majlis Soltan Mammadov, as well as representatives of government agencies, project partners, and public organizations.

The event began with the performance of the national anthem.

Founder of the Birgə və Sağlam public association Ayten Eynalova stated in her speech that the organization provides support to people with autism and their families, and also conducts awareness-raising activities in this field.

SkillBridge project manager Khezi Eynalov noted that the new center is designed to develop professional skills of people with disabilities and neurodivergences, facilitate their integration into the labor market, and expand employment opportunities.

It was noted that the center's four workshops are equipped with modern equipment, and the necessary conditions have been provided to create an inclusive educational environment. Training is planned to be organized in the following areas:

- graphic design;

- web design and software;

- artistic interior and exterior design;

- wood carving;

- sales and cashier-controller work.

In addition, at the workshop operating under the Birgə və Sağlam public association, practical training sessions are conducted for young people with neurodivergences in the areas of confectionery, barista work, and office administration.

Within the framework of the project, goals have been set to assess the capabilities of a total of 200 people, engage 100 people in training programs, and ensure employment for at least 60 people.

A video dedicated to the project's goals and the center's activities was then shown.

Head of the Executive Authority of Khazar District Elshan Salakhov emphasized in his speech the importance of developing education, creating equal opportunities for children, and supporting inclusive learning.

Deputy Minister of Science and Education Firudin Gurbanov noted the necessity of creating conditions that allow all children to receive education. He emphasized that in inclusive education, it is important not only to eliminate physical barriers but also to develop practical skills of graduates and facilitate their integration into the labor market.

Director of the State Agency for Vocational Education Ilgar Bayramli noted that inclusive vocational education plays an important role in unlocking each person's potential and ensuring their active participation in the socio-economic life of society.

According to him, between 2023 and 2026, more than 5,000 training opportunities were created for people with disabilities in vocational education institutions. In the current academic year, the number of enrolled individuals from this category reached 1,400 people, which is 40% more compared to 2023.

The director added that the new center will contribute not only to expanding access to vocational education but also to transforming acquired skills into real employment opportunities.

Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Indira Hajiyeva, Executive Director of SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC Polad Rustamov, and Member of the Milli Majlis Soltan Mammadov also spoke at the event.

Two young people with neurodivergences shared their life stories. In their speeches, special attention was given to the role of professional skills development and inclusive education in preparing for independent life.

At the conclusion of the event, guests toured the Inclusive Training and Education Center, the conditions created, and the workshops. A commemorative photo was taken at the end.

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