Baku:The Inclusive Training and Education Centre has been inaugurated at the Baku State Vocational Education Centre for Culture and Crafts. This development is part of the ‘SkillBridge – Inclusive Education for Inclusive Employment’ project.
According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Alena Aliyeva, Deputy Minister of Science and Education Firudin Gurbanov, Head of the Khazar District Executive Authority Elshan Salahov, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports Indira Hajiyeva, Executive Director of SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC Polad Rustamov, MP Soltan Mammadov, and representatives from government agencies, project partners, and civil society organizations.
The ceremony began with the national anthem, followed by remarks from Aytan Eynalova, founder of the ‘Birg? v? Saglam’ Public Union, who emphasized the organization’s efforts to support individuals with autism and raise public awareness. Hazi Eynalov, Project Manager of ‘SkillBridge,’ explained that the centre aims to enhance vocational skills for people with disabilities and neurodivergent individuals, aiding their integration into the workforce and expanding their employment opportunities.
The centre is equipped with four workshops that offer modern facilities for inclusive education. Courses will cover areas such as graphic design, web design and software development, interior and exterior design, wood carving, sales, and cashier-supervisor operations. Practical training in confectionery, barista skills, and clerical work is also available to neurodivergent youth through the ‘Birg? v? Saglam’ Public Union.
The project has set goals to conduct 200 assessments, engage 100 participants in training programs, and secure employment for at least 60 individuals. A video presentation highlighted the project’s aims and the centre’s activities.
Elshan Salahov emphasized the significance of educational development and equal opportunities for children, while Deputy Minister Firudin Gurbanov spoke about the necessity of ensuring education access for all, removing physical barriers, and equipping graduates with practical skills for the job market. Polad Rustamov highlighted the importance of inclusive education and employment for youth development and job acquisition.
Ilgar Bayramli, head of the State Agency for Vocational Education, noted that over 5,000 educational opportunities have been provided to people with disabilities between 2023 and 2026, with a 40 percent increase in enrolments this academic year. The new centre aims to bridge the gap between vocational training and employment.
Deputy Minister Indira Hajiyeva and MP Soltan Mammadov also contributed to the discussions. Two neurodivergent young individuals shared their experiences, underlining the value of inclusive education and vocational skills for independent living.
Guests were given a tour of the centre’s workshops and facilities. The SkillBridge project, implemented by the ‘Birg? v? Saglam’ Public Union, is supported by the State Agency for Vocational Education, SOCAR Midstream Gas Operations LLC, and South Caucasus Pipeline partners, aiming to enhance vocational skills and economic independence for people with disabilities.