The European Program ‘UNIQUE’, in which KES College participated, is incorporated into CEDEFOP
- January 31, 2024
- Posted by: Demetra Michael
- Category: KES College News
KES College proudly announces the integration of the results from the European Erasmus+ KA3 program “Unique – EqUal iNclusIon of LGBTIQ stUdents in VET,” in which it participated as a partner, into CEDEFOP’s Good Practice Toolkit.
CEDEFOP, the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training, is at the forefront of European cooperation to promote, improve, and develop Vocational Education and Training (VET) through effective policy-making. CEDEFOP enhances knowledge, provides data and services for decision-making and policy formulation, and also offers a framework for ensuring the exchange of knowledge among various levels and stakeholders at both European and national levels.
The UNIQUE program aimed to reverse negative perceptions and attitudes towards LGBTIQ+ students in VET. Focusing on the training of VET teachers and trainers, the project concentrated on addressing incidents of discrimination within the VET environment and openly discussing “sensitive” topics in the classroom, with an emphasis on supporting LGBTIQ+ students. The project, which was successfully completed in May 2023, included the following:
- Mapping of discrimination related to the LGBTIQ+ community in partner countries and non-discriminatory educational strategies in VET.
- Development of an online training program for VET teachers/trainers.
- Pilot implementation of the training program and introduction of the concept of Unique Ambassadors.
- Policy recommendations contributing to gender equality agendas in education.
One of the major innovations of the project is its specific focus on the VET sector, addressing an existing gap for interventions in this field. The project promotes emotional intelligence among teachers/trainers and students and highlights the importance of general transversal skills required to adapt to the flexible demands of the labor market.
In summary, the incorporation of the results developed through the European UNIQUE program into CEDEFOP’s Good Practice Toolkit showcases an innovative approach in practice for advancing equality and inclusion in VET, offering a pioneering model for preparing VET educators and students for the demanding labor market of the future.
At KES College, we remain committed to promoting equality and inclusion in Vocational Education and Training.
For more information about the project, visit the CEDEFOP Good Practice Toolkit.