Who we are
|
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (ViA), founded in 1996, is recognized for its multidisciplinary profile, qualified academic staff, insightful scientific research and evidence – based practice on regional, national and international level. ViA offers higher education in governance, business, IT, communication and media, and tourism, as well as provides lifelong learning opportunities for different target groups. The Knowledge and Technology centre (ZTC) is a project coordinator, while the Institute of Social, Economic and Humanities Research (HESPI) and Sociotechnical Engineering Institute (SSII VIA) will ensure the project implementation. |
|
Why we are involved in SEMPRE Accelerators
We are experienced in assessment of municipal environments, local communities, businesses and people in Vidzeme region. For instance we are offering indicators for sustainable development of rural areas, social entrepreneurship, empowerment planning tools and social human security assessment used in work with different vulnerable groups – poor families and children, people with disabilities, NEET (not in education, employment or training) youth and other social groups. Finally, we are endorsing the use of high technologies and networking strengthening their mobility and access to lifelong learning opportunities. We have joined SEMPRE Accelerators in order to acknowledge and promote application of the best innovative social practices and tools in social service provision: involving important stakeholders in empowerment planning process primary targeted on youth (NEET, young mothers and other vulnerable groups) in Vidzeme region.
Our micro project in SEMPRE Accelerators?
In Liepaja, we are currently establishing a “Stop-over Coffee Shop”, a social enterprise that gathers young people and disadvantaged groups living in Liepa and the surrounding area. The coffee shop offers coffee and cakes for tourists and locals and provides handmade souvenirs and further local services. The overarching idea of the coffee shop is to provide inclusive workplaces for people outside the labour market (such as single parents or people with disabilities) and to create a platform for education, training and practice (i.e. apprenticeships) to support the transition to the regular labour market.
To learn more about the micro project and its path towards a social start-up, please follow the social start-up biography. If you speak Latvian, you might also follow the local blog of the initiative: www.projectsemprevia.wordpress.com
|
Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences Main expert on social empowerment: |
 |
