Inclusive and Nurturing Spaces for Progressive, Innovative, and Responsive Education

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania - Ukraine

Date of latest update: 2026-09-11

Description

Description (EN):

Children with special educational needs face many barriers in receiving quality education. Unfortunately, many schools are still not adapted to meet their needs. These children require special teaching methods, an individual approach, and sometimes special equipment in the cities of the program territory. A common challenge for the cross-border region is to ensure access to the educational process for all its participants, especially children with special educational needs (SEN) in Ivano-Frankivsk (IF) and Botoșani (BS). It involves providing broad opportunities for enriching, expanding, and systematizing children's knowledge and ideas on environmental preservation. Its overall objective is - increasing accessibility of environmental education for pupils and children with special educational needs in the cross-border territory by creating inclusive spaces, innovative teaching methods, and increasing children's participation in extracurricular environmental education programs .This objective is directly related to Priority 2: Social Development Across Borders and falls under the specific objective SO 2.1: Improving equal access to inclusive and quality services in education, training, and lifelong learning by developing accessible infrastructure, including fostering resilience for distance and online education and training The project's outputs are: - the establishment of open-air therapeutic gardens at the Municipal Children's Environmental Center in Ivano-Frankivsk and at the Special Vocational School Ion Pillat Dorohoi in Botosani. These spaces will be designed to provide inclusive and accessible learning environments for children of the communities, especially those with special needs; - equipment for outdoor learning: for working with natural materials in Ivano-Frankivsk (for research and development of abilities in natural sciences); musical instruments in Botosani (as a method of developing speech, memory and creativity). Environmental integration and community impact approach: integrating environmental awareness and education into the curriculum, promoting sustainable development and a deeper connection with nature among all students. At the same time, the project will promote the sustainable use of urban ecosystems through the renovation and construction of educational and therapeutic spaces. These spaces will serve as examples of best practices that will benefit not only students but also the wider community, including residents and tourists in the partner cities. The synergy of the project is that it emphasizes a cross-border approach, as it allows for the exchange of knowledge and experience between the two regions, increasing the overall quality and impact of the project. It brings Romanian cities in line with EU legislation and standards while filling a gap in Ukraine, promoting a harmonized approach and consistent implementation of sustainable practices. The cross-border impact is significant, fostering cooperation, knowledge sharing, and joint initiatives aimed at enhancing pedagogical expertise, encouraging students to engage in interactive and therapeutic learning, and addressing common challenges faced by both regions. The project's uniqueness lies in creating an inclusive educational environment in the open air in the form of therapeutic gardens. A therapeutic garden is a specially organized space that combines rehabilitation and educational opportunities based on a child's interaction with nature. It helps children to express their abilities better, learn, develop and promotes the development of the five basic senses: sight, smell, sound, touch, and taste. In the center of the therapeutic gardens, school classrooms will be equipped to host various classes, training, and events. Surrounded by nature, natural objects, fragrant herbs, bright flower beds, and natural sounds, children improve their health and their ability to learn.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During the first reporting period (April–August 2025), the INSPIRE project moved from the preparatory to the implementation phase, with both partners achieving progress according to the activities planned for this stage. In Ivano-Frankivsk, the Executive Committee of the City Council organized the opening conference, which officially launched the project and presented its objectives, planned activities, and expected results to local stakeholders and the community. This event ensured the visibility of the project and marked its formal start at the Programme level. The Executive Committee carried out preparatory and procurement activities related to several components. Equipment for the ecological digital laboratory was purchased, including tools for chemistry and biology, micro preparations, and sets for microgreen cultivation. Preparations for the “Ecolandia” educational event continued, and a spatial planning expert was engaged to develop the territorial plan for the CCES area. The design and cost estimate documentation for the therapeutic garden were developed, and the procurement procedure for the specialized minibus was completed with the signing of a supply contract. In parallel, communication and visibility activities were implemented: the project logo and visual identity were created, roll-ups were produced, professional photo coverage was ensured, and work began on the CCES website, which will serve as an information and communication platform for sharing project results. In Botoșani, the County Council implemented several procurement procedures and preparatory activities. Contracts were signed for visibility, translation, interpretation, transport, and landscaping design services, as well as for the purchase of office furniture for the project team. The partner also produced and delivered the first set of visibility materials, including a roll-up, stickers, and 100 promotional kits containing notebooks, pens, USB drives, eco pots, and flower seeds. The promotional materials will be used during future educational and awareness-raising activities implemented by the “Ion Pillat” Special Vocational School in Dorohoi, which has already selected 5 teachers and 30 pupils as part of the target group. Although some activities were affected by regional security risks and related travel restrictions, cooperation between the partners remained effective. Regular communication and coordination ensured the exchange of information and the alignment of implementation steps. By the end of the first reporting period, the project established a solid basis for further implementation, with key procurement, visibility, and planning activities successfully completed. The achieved results create the necessary preconditions for the next phase focused on educational, environmental, and infrastructural components. During the second reporting period, the project made significant progress in both infrastructure development and implementation of educational and environmental activities, demonstrating strong cross-border cooperation between partners. One of the key achievements was the development of a comprehensive spatial planning document for the territory of the City Children Ecological Station (CCES) in Ivano-Frankivsk. This document established clear functional zones for education, recreation, and environmental activities, ensuring a structured and safe environment for children and forming a basis for sustainable future development. A major milestone was the successful organisation of the environmental and educational event “Ecolandia”, which combined scientific experiments, creative workshops, eco-quests, and gardening activities. The use of specialised laboratory equipment allowed children to gain hands-on experience and develop analytical, research, and teamwork skills. Another important joint achievement was the cross-border flashmob “Plant Your Tree”, implemented simultaneously in Ivano-Frankivsk and Botoșani. Children and teachers in both locations actively participated in planting trees and engaging in creative and educational activities, promoting environmental awareness and strengthening the sense of shared responsibility for nature across borders. Significant progress was also made in creating inclusive educational infrastructure. Works on the therapeutic garden in Ivano-Frankivsk are ongoing, including the installation of a gazebo, procurement of furniture and interactive panels, renovation of existing facilities, and purchase of a specialised minibus to ensure accessibility for children with special educational needs. These improvements contribute to the creation of a modern, inclusive, and multisensory learning environment. In parallel, Botoșani partners advanced infrastructure-related activities and implemented educational actions at the “Ion Pillat” Special Vocational School, including environmental and sensory workshops supporting students’ cognitive, motor, and emotional development. Communication and visibility activities were actively carried out, including the development of a dedicated website, production of promotional materials, and dissemination of information through media and online platforms, increasing public awareness about the project and its benefits. Overall, the project has successfully delivered tangible results, including educational events, infrastructure improvements, and innovative learning tools. The added value of cooperation lies in the exchange of knowledge, joint implementation of activities, and creation of replicable models of inclusive environmental education that can be applied in both countries and beyond.

Project outputs: Enhanced Inclusive Learning Environments(EN)
Cross-Border Collaboration(EN)

Thematic information

Education and training Social inclusion and equal opportunities

Priority: (VI-A_Ro-Ua_2) Social Development Across Borders

Priority specific objective: RSO4.2. Improving equal access to inclusive and quality services in education, training and lifelong learning through developing accessible infrastructure, including by fostering resilience for distance and on-line education and training

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO4 A more social and inclusive Europe implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights

Type of intervention: 122 Infrastructure for primary and secondary education

Partners (2)

Lead Partner: Виконавчий комітет Івано-Франківської міської ради

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 914014511

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 04054346 - Official registration number

Address: Hrushevskoho Street, 76004 Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website (not verified): https://www.mvk.if.ua/en/

Total budget: EUR 208 939.10

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 188 045.19

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 20 893.91

Contractors:

Name: PE Ternavshenko Y.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 3224408127
Name: "Nikkos", LLC
VAT registration or tax identification number: 24230905
Name: "Alians-A", LLC
VAT registration or tax identification number: 32077336
Name: PE Zhdanov Ye.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 2891709716
Name: PE Bondarenko A/
VAT registration or tax identification number: 3479506849
Name: PE Mospaniuk O.
VAT registration or tax identification number: 2729803143
Name: Osvitni rishennia tekhnologii
VAT registration or tax identification number: 45720339

Județul Botoșani - Consiliul Județean

Name: Județul Botoșani - Consiliul Județean

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 889024692

Partner’s ID if not PIC: N.a.

Address: Revolution square, 710236 Botoșani, Romania

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: http://www.cjbotosani.ro

Total budget: EUR 195 202.51

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 175 682.25

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 19 520.26

Contractors:

Name: SC KOL DRAG SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 15734609
Name: SC ANLIN CONSULTING SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: 48056693
Name: SC OCTAMEDIA PLUS SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO39722938
Name: SC MAREN PRODCOM SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO3563882
Name: SC ANOTECH STEELWORKS SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO37562296
Name: SC MILANTEK PROJECT SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO46578372
Name: SC QUARTZ MATRIX SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO5150840
Name: SC CARIDA SESSION SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO18599906
Name: SC NEDAROM IMPACT SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO37389609
Name: SC GAD INVEST ECHIP SRL
VAT registration or tax identification number: RO41367803

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Botoșani County - County Council

Inclusive and Nurturing Spaces for Progressive, Innovative, and Responsive Education

Partners and Projects info

Виконавчий комітет Івано-Франківської міської ради

Inclusive and Nurturing Spaces for Progressive, Innovative, and Responsive Education

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Inclusive and Nurturing Spaces for Progressive, Innovative, and Responsive Education

Project acronym: INSPIRE

Project ID: ROUA00253

Project start date: 2025-04-24

Project end date: 2026-10-23

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Cross-border educational network between Botosani County (Romania) and Hlyboka District (Ukraine) - BEDUN, financed under the Joint Operational Program Romania-Ukraine 2014-2020 (EN) | The BEDUN project, financed under the Joint Operational Program Romania-Ukraine 2014-2020, had the objective to improve the educational services, enduring special conditions designed for children and disabled youth with special educational needs (SEN), and the support of the active inclusion services. As part of the BEDUN project, a multifunctional sports field with artificial grass was built, providing students with stimulating motivation for the healing process in a natural way and further development of pupils with SEN.
Both BEDUN and INSPIRE projects share the goal of enhancing educational services and ensuring special conditions for children and youth with SEN, as well as supporting active inclusion services. This shared objective demonstrates their alignment and commitment to addressing the needs of this vulnerable group.
The INSPIRE project, by creating an inclusive and accessible educational environment, builds upon this foundation and further supports the integration of children and young adults with SEN into various social environments. This shows a seamless continuation of efforts to provide an inclusive education for this target group.
The new project plans to use the expertise, knowledge, and experience gained by staff and experts from the BEDUN project. This knowledge transfer can lead to more effective and impactful services for children with SEN, benefiting from the lessons learned and best practices identified in the previous project.
Overall, the INSPIRE project's continuation of efforts to create an inclusive and supportive educational environment for children and young adults with SEN, while building upon the achievements of the BEDUN project, demonstrates a cohesive and forward-thinking strategy to address the needs of this vulnerable population. It also showcases the value of learning from previous initiatives to ensure continuous improvement and better outcomes for the target group.
(EN), ”RO-UA Partnership for Climate Change Mitigation” (RO-UA PART4CM) under Joint Operational Programme Romania-Ukraine 2014-2020, with a total project budget of EUR 276,092.00.
Duration: 18 months. Start: November 2020
(EN) | The project PART4CM aimed at developing and supporting innovative cooperation for climate change mitigation in the cross-border region of Romania and Ukraine to ensure sustainable development by organizing a new educational and research environment in the field of energy efficiency, which will lead to climate change mitigation by 2021.
The INSPIRE project will continue the educational campaign to raise awareness about the value of the environment and its importance in the ecological education of children, especially the importance of the environment in improving the psychological health of the child, his emotional state and will complement the innovations of the PART4CM project by creating innovative educational environmental programs.
Both projects operate in the cross-border region of Romania and Ukraine, providing an opportunity for cross-border cooperation and knowledge exchange. The results of educational and research initiatives of the RO-UA project can PART4CM be distributed through the educational programs of the INSPIRE project. The introduction of innovative solutions for the organization of the educational process form long-term beliefs in support of a sustainable lifestyle.
In general, the synergy between these projects could lead to a more comprehensive and effective approach to climate change mitigation and sustainable development in the cross-border region of Romania and Ukraine.
(EN), “Alternative therapies in Maramures and Ivano-Frankivsk” ALTHERA. project under JOP Operational Programme Romania-Ukraine 2014-2020, with a total budget of EUR 1,611,760.00.
Duration: 24 months. Start: March
2021 (EN) | The project envisaged the creation of an alternative therapy centre to improve the quality of life of children with musculoskeletal and central nervous system diseases and their families. The synergy is that both projects aim to create opportunities for all children to learn, regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, linguistic or other characteristics, and to feel like a full member of society. Both projects operate in the cross-border region of Romania and Ukraine, providing opportunities for cross-border cooperation and knowledge exchange.
The results of the ALTHERA project can be used to create accessible inclusive educational spaces for learning in the INSPIRE project.
In general, the synergy between these projects can lead to a more comprehensive and effective approach to creating an inclusive educational environment and sustainable development in the cross-border region of Romania and Ukraine.
(EN), «Management and use of urban forests as natural heritage in Danube cities» (URBforDAN) under Danube Transnational Programme with a total project budget of 2 788 566,61 Euro
Duration: 34 months. Start: June 2018
(EN) | The URBforDAN project is aimed at addressing pressing needs and issues related to sustainable management of natural heritage in cities; raising awareness about prudent preservation of natural resources; organizing actions to increase environmental consciousness and culture, prevention of negative impacts on natural resources; and deepening transnational cooperation on governance and use of natural resources (suburban forests).
The INSPIRE project is a project about creating an inclusive educational environment using the natural environment. That is, thanks to the natural materials that surround us, the environment, the INSPIRE project will organise an open learning environment for all children, regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, linguistic or other characteristics.
The synergy between these projects can lead to a more comprehensive and effective approach to creating an inclusive educational environment and sustainable development in the cross-border region of Romania and Ukraine.
(EN), ProAction project - Improving access to housing, education and quality social services for children and families in Ukraine" is financed by the Swiss Solidarity Fund and the Crisis and Support Center of the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs of France
Duration: from April to December 2023.
(EN) | The aim of the ProAction project was to improve the professional skills of teachers at the City Children's Ecological Station in working with children and parents; to conduct psychosocial classes for children of different ages, teaching adaptability, cooperation, empathy, emotion management, communication skills and responsibility. The INSPIRE project will be a continuation of the ProAction project in terms of arranging an inclusive learning space at the YFC to provide children and youth with space for learning, development, play and communication. The two projects are aimed at creating a modern, innovative, educational space for students and children with special educational needs, creating new educational programmes, and improving the skills of teachers to ensure equal access to education for all children and sustainable development of the region. (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 404 141.61

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 363 727.44

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 90.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Infrastructure investments:

I1.2 - Infrastructure and equipment setup in RO - EUR 139 733.00 - country: România (RO), town: Dorohoi, street: 1 Decembrie, 30A, postal_code: 715200, Nord-Est (RO21), Botoşani (RO212)
I1.1 - Therapeutic garden at the CCES in IF - EUR 23 000.00 - country: Ukraine (UA), town: Ivano-Frankivsk, street: Lenkavskoho Street, 17, postal_code: 76010, Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast (UA0M), Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast (UA0M0)

Deliverables:

Materials of conducting the press conferences
Equipment
Materials of trainings
Equipment
Fleshmob materials
Spatial planning of the CCES territory
Materials of online workshops
Materials of online workshops
Materials of workshops
material for sharing experience
Equipment
Material of the conference
Equipment
Materials of online workshops
material of the conference
Promotional materials LP1
Promotional materials PP2
Information materials and media
Equipment
therapeutic sensory corner
therapeutic garden in Ivano-Frankivsk

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyDanubeRegion The project contributes to the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) objective of ensuring inclusive education and training and promoting inclusive labour markets, equal opportunities and non-discrimination by:
Enhancing educational infrastructure - designing therapeutical gardens improves infrastructure including for children with disabilities, aligning with the EUSDR goal of enhancing quality of education facilities.
Cross-border experience exchange - exchanging experiences between teaching staff from Dorohoi and CCES promotes cross-border learning. This collaboration allows identification and implementation of best practices in education, including for children with special needs, aligning with the EUSDR’s objective.
In summary, the project not only addresses specific needs in terms of outdoor activities but also actively promotes collaborative learning and exchange of best practices, supporting the overarching EUSDR strategy goal of enhancing quality and efficiency of education.
The INSPIRE project aims to ensure equal access to education by developing new inclusive environmental awareness and ecological culture programs based on cooperation and good neighborliness, corresponding to the “Building a Prosperous Region” Strategy direction by promoting well-being and a knowledge-based society, investing in people and skills.
Project activities align with the EU “Knowledge-based Society” priority involving new educational programs in Ivano-Frankivsk and Botoshani for integration into the European environment, contributing to new innovations and research. International forums will create conditions for environmental education of children regardless of characteristics. Building educational potential by developing students’ interest in nature, forming caring attitudes corresponds to the priority - “Investing in people and skills” - and supports inclusive education.
Other The European Disability Strategy 2021-2030
The project aligns comprehensively with the "Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities 2021-2030" by:
- Access to education, culture, and sport - by creating inclusive environments for learning and recreational activities, the project contributes to the strategy's priorities of ensuring equal opportunities in education, culture, and sports for persons with disabilities;
- Global promotion of disability rights - the project aligns with the strategy's global perspective by setting an example of inclusive practices, contributing to the EU's broader intention to promote the rights of persons with disabilities globally;
- Social Inclusion - the therapeutic garden promotes social inclusion by creating spaces where children with disabilities can actively participate in meaningful activities. This aligns with the strategy's emphasis on social participation;
- Equal opportunities and access - the project aims to provide equal opportunities for children with disabilities by creating inclusive spaces like a therapeutic garden. This aligns with the strategy's goal of ensuring equal opportunities and access for persons with disabilities.
In summary, the project contribute directly to the priorities and objectives outlined in the strategy, serving as a model for inclusive practices and community-based support for individuals with disabilities.
Other UNESCO strategy on education for health and well-being,
Strategic outcome 3: All learners benefit from safe, inclusive learning environments free from all forms of violence, bullying, stigma and discrimination
The contribution is based on the acknowledgement that safe, inclusive, and violence-free learning environments benefit not only a chosen few but also all learners and members of the school community. The created therapeutic environments within the INSPIRE project foster respect for diversity and differences, offering every learner a secure space to evolve into their future selves and achieve the maximum benefits from their education.
Other National Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities "An Equitable Romania," 2022-2027
The project aligns well with the objectives outlined in the National Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities "An Equitable Romania," 2022-2027 through:
- Inclusive education and quality learning environments - the therapeutic garden offers practical, inclusive learning environments for children with disabilities, aligning with the strategy's goal of ensuring access to inclusive, quality education;
- Adapted learning conditions - the project addresses the importance of adapted learning conditions for students with disabilities, providing tailored spaces that accommodate the diverse needs of children, allowing them to learn on an equal footing with their peers;
- Customized educational approaches - recognizing that students with disabilities may have different learning needs, the project supports adapted teaching programs and methods. The therapeutic garden can serve as a platform for innovative, hands-on learning experiences that cater to diverse learning styles;
- Empowering special schools - the project empowers the Special School in Dorohoi by providing them with the tools and infrastructure needed to address the unique educational needs of their students. This aligns with the strategy's focus on supporting schools to meet the specific requirements of students with disabilities.
In summary, the project contributes to the National Strategy on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities by creating inclusive, adaptive, and empowering educational environments for children with disabilities. It reflects a commitment to the principles of equity, equal access, and customized support, as outlined in the strategy for an equitable Romania from 2022 to 2027
Other The Development Strategy of the City of Ivano-Frankivsk for the period up to 2028 in the strategic direction "The City of Quality Education, Medicine, Multiformat Cultural Environment", operational goal D 1.2. "Introduction of the concept of educational coaching".
The INSPIRE project envisages the development of educational programs at the CCES and methodological recommendations for organizing training in extracurricular educational institutions of ecological orientation; methods for identifying professional inclinations and determining a professionally oriented type of students and children with special educational needs; methods of rational and economical consumption of natural resources in everyday life, and other informational and promotional booklets.
Other The "Education of the Ivano-Frankivsk City Territorial Community. 2021-2025" Program, in particular the direction of development of out-of-school education.
Creating conditions for free access for all children, regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, linguistic or other characteristics, raising the level of educational, educational and methodological and scientific and methodological support, expanding international cooperation of extracurricular education institutions in order to exchange and disseminate information in the field of research and innovation, deepening transnational cooperation between innovations and the educational space.
Other The Development Strategy of Ivano-Frankivsk Region for 2021-2027, strategic direction 3. "Creating comfortable and safe living conditions in Ivano-Frankivsk Region", operational goal 3.1. Ensuring equal access, improving the quality of medical, educational services and developing sports in communities.
Improving the quality and accessibility of educational services
Other Laws of Ukraine "About Education", "About Out-of-School Education"
The law establishes equal rights and opportunities to receive quality and affordable education; оeducation in Ukraine should be based on the principle of equal opportunities for all. Out-of-school education, as a component of education, is aimed at developing the abilities and talents of pupils, students and trainees, satisfying their interests, spiritual needs and professional determination, and should also be accessible to all.
Other International scientific and educational programme GLOBE.
Providing the opportunity for students, teachers, scientists and citizens from all over the world to participate in the process of collecting environmental data and scientific research. Similar environmental research practices will also take place in the INSPIRE project.

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:
RCO 067 - Classroom capacity of new or modernised education facilities, Measurement unit:

Delivered output indicator(s):

(RCO87) Organisations cooperating across borders: 4.0

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 071 - Annual users of new or modernised education facilities, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-A NEXT Romania - Ukraine

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-09

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

79 / 79 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

197 / 208 (94.71%)

Notes on the data

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Inclusive and Nurturing Spaces for Progressive, Innovative, and Responsive Education

Description

Thematic information

Partners (2)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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