New opportunities for professional development and employment are being created for persons with disabilities in Leskovac, Novi Pazar and Dimitrovgrad, where vocational training and work integration programmes are being implemented through the EMPOWERED project.
A total of 18 persons with disabilities are involved in these programmes across the three municipalities, gaining or preparing to gain practical experience, develop professional skills and improve their prospects for entering the labour market.
Through cooperation with local civil society organisations, training providers and relevant institutions, these activities aim to address barriers to employment and support greater economic independence and social inclusion.
Vocational training and practical work experience in Leskovac
In Leskovac, eight participants are involved in vocational training and work integration activities.
Four participants have started vocational training at Oxford Academy. Three are attending a business MS Office course, while one female participant is receiving training in massage therapy. The training activities are progressing well, with regular communication and monitoring to ensure that participants receive appropriate support throughout the learning process.
At the same time, four additional participants are gaining practical work experience through a work integration programme implemented in cooperation with the association “Naš svet”. The programme provides opportunities to develop workplace skills and gain valuable experience in a supportive environment.
Supporting labour market inclusion in Novi Pazar
In Novi Pazar, two participants have joined a work integration programme implemented in cooperation with the SLAP Novi Pazar Association.
The activities are ongoing, with continuous monitoring of participants’ progress and cooperation between the organisations involved. The programme aims to strengthen practical skills, encourage professional development and support participants in preparing for future employment opportunities.
Preparing work integration activities in Dimitrovgrad
In Dimitrovgrad, eight participants have been enrolled in a work integration programme organised in cooperation with the “Caribrod” Association, with activities scheduled to begin in November 2026.
As part of the preparations, a coordination meeting was held with the participation of a local government representative. The meeting focused on ensuring effective implementation of the planned activities and strengthening cooperation among local stakeholders involved in supporting persons with disabilities.
Creating opportunities for professional development and economic independence
The vocational training and work integration programmes in these three municipalities demonstrate the importance of combining skills development, practical experience and cooperation among local stakeholders to improve employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
By connecting participants with training providers, civil society organisations and local institutions, the EMPOWERED project contributes to strengthening local support mechanisms and promoting a more inclusive labour market.
These efforts form part of the project’s broader commitment to improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities across the Western Balkans by creating opportunities for professional development, greater economic independence and equal participation in society.