Education for All: The First Inclusive Education Resource Center (IERC) in a Kindergarten in Cahul

This autumn, in the village of Crihana Veche, the NGO Regional Center for Community Development (A.O. C.R.D.C.) launched the project “A.R.I.P.I. – Assistance and Resources for Inclusion and Individual Progress,” an innovative initiative aimed at supporting children with special needs in the area. The project is implemented under the “Active Citizens, Thriving Communities” program, managed by the East-European Foundation with financial support from Sweden and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

The main objective of the project is to create a Resource Center for Inclusive Education (R.C.I.E.) within the “Clopoțelul” Kindergarten in Crihana Veche, Cahul district. This center will provide personalized educational and psycho-pedagogical support, ensuring a friendly and adapted environment for the development of children with special needs.

The Inclusive Educational Resource Center will be equipped with adapted educational materials, an interactive space, and resources necessary to stimulate the cognitive, social, and emotional development of children. Additionally, teaching staff will receive specialized training focused on using modern methods for working with these children.

“Inclusion begins with education and community support. The ‘A.R.I.P.I.’ project is an important step toward a society where every child has the chance to reach their potential,” said Irina Bejan, the project coordinator.

In addition to educational activities, the project includes a community awareness component. A.O. C.R.D.C. is organizing meetings and information campaigns to promote the acceptance and integration of children with special needs into society.

A.O. C.R.D.C. expresses its gratitude to the Cahul Psycho-Pedagogical Assistance Service (SAP) for their support in project implementation, and to the Crihana Veche Municipality for their openness and support of this initiative.

Through this project, A.O. C.R.D.C. aims to create a replicable model of educational and social inclusion, contributing to the development of a more united and equitable community. The Inclusive Educational Resource Center will offer real opportunities for children with special needs to reach their potential in an accessible and stimulating environment.