Integration Through Knowledge – Non-Formal Training for Arabic-Speaking Newcomers in Lithuania
e-day workshop (February 3–5) under the initiative “Visi skirtingi – visi lygūs” (“All Different – All Equal”). The training was designed to support the integration of newcomers from Arab countries — specifically Iraq, Syria, and Yemen — by offering essential knowledge and guidance for adapting to life in Lithuania.
The training covered several core areas:
- Healthcare: Access to medical services and how the Lithuanian health system works.
- Education: Overview of the education structure and how to enroll children or continue studies.
- Job Market: Introduction to employment opportunities, CV writing, and application processes.
- Cultural Orientation: Insights into Lithuanian values, customs, and social norms to ease daily interactions.
I co-facilitated the training alongside my colleague Mustafa from Syria, with organizational support from the Lithuanian Employment Service and funding by ESFA (European Social Fund Agency). At the end of the workshop, participants received certificates of appreciation for their engagement and contribution to the integration initiative.
Participants expressed great appreciation for the opportunity to connect with others, gain practical knowledge, and take meaningful steps toward becoming active members of Lithuanian society