Project QSA4Disability (Quality Standard for Inclusive Distance Apprenticeships for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students) is a European initiative, co-funded by the Erasmus+ programme, which aims to make vocational education and training more accessible, inclusive and of high quality for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The project brings together partners from different European countries with the common mission to develop practical standards, tools and digital solutions for distance apprenticeships that meet the needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing young people.

Within the project, the following were created: quality standards, training resources and online platform, which support vocational education and training providers, companies and mentors in building fairer and more effective apprenticeships. All project results are available free of charge for interested parties.

Hub Bulgaria – a space for national cooperation and exchange

As part of the project, Hub Bulgaria was created – a specialized virtual space for Bulgarian VET providers, students, companies, NGOs and experts working in the field of inclusive education and employment. The Hub provides an opportunity for communication and cooperation in Bulgarian, taking into account the national context, specific challenges and good practices in the country.

In Hub Bulgaria, participants can share experiences, ask questions, discuss real-life cases and exchange perspectives on the implementation of inclusive distance learning for hearing-impaired students. The space encourages localized discussions related to the Bulgarian education system, regulatory framework and practical solutions, thus contributing to a more effective implementation of the project results at the national level.

You can find Hub Bulgatiya at the following address.

QSA4Disability e-Space – a digital space uniting all resources

All training materials and digital resources for the project are collected in QSA4Disability e-Space – an online platform based on Moodle. It was created to assist students, training organizations and companies in the implementation of including distance learning apprenticeships.

In the platform, users can find training courses, quality standards for VET and companies, practical self-assessment tools, as well as opportunities to participate in communities of practice at European level. e-Space is not just a learning environment, but a place for collaboration, knowledge exchange and building sustainable partnerships.

You can find the platform at the following address.

With the implementation of the QSA4Disability initiative, Europe is taking another important step towards equal access to education and professional development, placing inclusion at the heart of modern vocational training.

Adapting education to business needs

One of the main goals of business-education cooperation is to create curricula that meet the real needs of the economy. Through regular dialogue between employers and educational institutions, the most sought-after skills and knowledge can be identified. This includes both traditional technical competencies and skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and teamwork.

Internships and practical training

One of the most effective forms of collaboration is the organization of internships and practical training. They allow students and pupils to gain real-world experience that not only prepares them for their future careers, but also connects them directly with employers. For companies, this is an opportunity to identify talented personnel even before they graduate.

Investments in dual training (on-the-job training)

Dual education is an example of a model that combines classroom training with work in a real production environment. This approach not only facilitates the transition from education to employment, but also reduces the shortage of qualified labor in key industries. In Bulgaria, interest in dual education is growing, as more and more companies see it as a solution to their personnel challenges.

Innovation and research partnerships

Cooperation between business and education is not limited to training personnel. It also includes joint work on innovation and scientific research. Universities and companies can join forces to develop new technologies, products or services that contribute to economic development and increase competitiveness.

Long-term benefits of cooperation

Companies that invest in joint initiatives with educational institutions not only secure a skilled workforce for themselves, but also contribute to economic and social stability. In turn, educational institutions strengthen their positions by providing training that is relevant and valued by employers.

Cooperation between business and education is a strategic tool for building a sustainable and competitive workforce. It requires active commitment from both sides, a vision for the future and a willingness to adapt. When companies and educational institutions work together, the results are profitable not only for them, but also for the entire society. At the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry, we actively work to implement such partnerships through various projects, including:

• QSA4Disability: The project aims to develop quality standards for distance apprenticeships that support the integration of people with disabilities into the work environment. This includes creating resources and platforms that provide flexible learning and professional development opportunities for vulnerable groups.
• GenZ4GreenDeal: The initiative unites young people in efforts for sustainable development by engaging them in activities to support local communities. The project combines educational modules, practical tasks and campaigns to promote green and ecological practices, preparing the next generation of leaders for responsible decisions in the future.
• School Starters' Hub: The project transforms secondary schools into innovation hubs that foster entrepreneurial spirit and creativity in students. Resources and methodologies are created that provide young people with practical skills and experience necessary for a successful transition to the labor market and the modern economy.
• DESIRE: This project develops innovative approaches to digital education, focused on social innovation and entrepreneurship. The initiative aims to support teachers, trainers and organizations in the use of new technologies, thus stimulating social and economic development in local communities.
• FINMAN: Financial literacy is key to sustainable economic development, and the FINMAN project provides tools and training for personal financial management. This helps both individuals and businesses make more informed and sustainable financial decisions.

These initiatives demonstrate our commitment to creating effective and sustainable models of business-education collaboration that not only support local enterprises but also prepare the next generation for successful participation in the global marketplace.

Note: This publication was prepared with the assistance of generative artificial intelligence, which supported the structuring and formulation of the content. The final text reflects the author’s expert contribution, which ensures its accuracy and practical relevance.

On December 10, 2024, the new Cyber Resilience Act – a key moment in the EU’s drive to strengthen the security of citizens and businesses against cyberattacks. The legislation aims to protect both consumers and businesses when buying and using software and hardware products with a digital component, addressing key issues such as the insufficient level of cybersecurity in many of the available products and the lack of timely security updates. In addition, the law offers solutions to the challenges associated with choosing and configuring products so that they meet modern cybersecurity standards.

The new requirements set out in the law will make it much easier for consumers and businesses to choose products with digital elements, making it easier to identify hardware and software products that offer robust cybersecurity features. Products will be marked with the “CE” mark to indicate that they comply with the new regulation. This will allow for more informed choices and create greater trust in products with this mark, which will fully comply with the standards of the Cyber Resilience Act.

One of the main innovations of the law is the introduction of mandatory cybersecurity requirements that manufacturers and traders must comply with. These requirements cover all stages – from planning and design to product development and maintenance. Manufacturers will also be obliged to ensure the care of products throughout their entire life cycle. Some products that are of particular importance for cybersecurity, such as network routers, IoT devices and access management software, will need to undergo a third-party assessment carried out by an authorized body before they can be placed on the market in the European Union.

The new rules shift the responsibility to manufacturers, who will have to ensure that their products with digital elements are secure and reliable. This will allow consumers and businesses to make informed decisions and have confidence in the cybersecurity of the products they use. With the introduction of the Cyber Resilience Act, the European Union is taking a decisive step towards creating a safer digital environment for all.

As a key partner to the business, and through the implementation of initiatives such as Digital Twin – Digital twins for intelligent productionThe Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity for the sustainable development of enterprises and encourages the use of innovations and good practices to address digital challenges.

Environmental protectiona

One of the main areas of corporate social responsibility is environmental protection. Companies can invest in technologies and processes that reduce their carbon footprint, optimize resource use and minimize waste. For example, a company can implement energy-efficient solutions in its production processes or office buildings. Using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power is also an excellent way to reduce your environmental footprint. Recycling and reducing plastic waste are other effective strategies that can be integrated into daily business operations.

Social responsibility

Companies can engage in various social projects aimed at improving the quality of life in local communities. This includes support for educational and health initiatives, cultural and sporting events, as well as various forms of social assistance. For example, a company may provide scholarships for students or fund school projects. Support for local cultural and sporting events also contributes to improving social well-being and creates a positive public image.

Transparency and ethics in management

Transparency and ethics in management are essential to corporate social responsibility. Companies must adopt principles of good corporate governance, which include openness in communication with partners, customers and stakeholders, responsibility to employees and strict compliance with legislation. Regular sustainability reports that contain information on achieved results and future goals are an effective way to demonstrate a commitment to transparency and ethics. This not only builds trust, but also reduces the risk of financial and reputational losses.

Successful integration of Corporate Social Responsibility

For successful integration of corporate social responsibility into strategic planning and operational processes, companies must develop long-term plans and goals, as well as measure and report the results of their initiatives. It is important to establish specific, measurable goals that can be tracked and evaluated regularly. This includes a systematic approach and regular monitoring that allows companies to achieve significant results in the field of corporate social responsibility and create sustainable development. Companies must strive for continuous improvement of their CSR practices through innovation and adaptation to the new demands of the market and society.

Conclusion

Corporate social responsibility is an important factor for the sustainable development of business and society. By committing to environmental, social and governance principles, companies can create added value that goes beyond financial results and contributes to building a better and sustainable future. In today's dynamic business world, CSR is not only an obligation, but also an opportunity for companies to demonstrate their commitment to ensuring a greener future for all.

The final conference focused on discussing the important topic of green growth and sustainable development, in the light of growing environmental challenges and the need for innovation in business and society. The event brought together experts from various fields who discussed current trends and opportunities for green growth, presenting various innovative approaches, technologies and strategies aimed at promoting sustainable business practices and adapting to environmental challenges.

• Stella Dionisieva, program and project expert at RTIK, made a presentation of the "Ambassadors of Green Change" project, emphasizing the results created - a training course on the implementation of sustainability and green practices, a practical manual for sustainable transformation, as well as a capacity assessment tool of SMEs for successful implementation and implementation of green innovation and transition projects.
• Tanya Koleva, project manager in NRJ Soft, shared what challenges are encountered on the way to a green future and the implementation of innovative technologies in the Bulgarian market, also looking at how business and society must adapt to environmental requirements and how innovation plays an important role in this.
• Veneta Petrova, manager of the management of harmful substances in BTB Bulgaria, presented the important topic of the EU Green Deal, as well as what are the current environmental requirements for the textile industry.

The event ended with a networking session, during which the participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas, contacts and discuss opportunities for future collaborations.

With this and other similar initiatives, the Rousse Chamber of Commerce and Industry continues to actively support innovation for green growth, as well as work to create sustainable business practices in the region to ensure a more sustainable future for all.

The QSA4Disability project aims to create a more inclusive apprenticeship program for hearing impaired people in the EU in vocational education and training (students and young people aged 14-18) by developing a quality standard for distance apprenticeships (consisting of tools, electronic solutions and activities). This will create a more inclusive VET and business environment that promotes equality and equity for this group.

Partners in the project are organizations from Hungary, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, Bulgaria, Italy, Greece, Slovenia.

The QSA4Disability project is funded by the Erasmus+ program of the EU.

In the newsletter you will find detailed information about:

• The main phases and achievements of the project: How the project is developing, including the key moments and results of its implementation.
• The final transnational meeting of partners in Valencia: The main discussions, goals and final steps of the project.
• The development of e-learning and learning resources: Including e-course information and trainings aimed at increasing sales both online and on-site.
• Various workshops and events: Overview of organized initiatives and their impact in different European countries.

The newsletter also contains information about the project partners and their contributions to the success of the initiative. All RetRail resources, including this newsletter, are freely available and can be downloaded from the project website.

Download your copy of the newsletter today and learn about the latest retail trends that can transform your business strategies too!

The purpose of the exchange is to provide an opportunity to explore the innovative practices of Norwegian companies in the field of green innovation and circular economy located in the cities of Steinherr, Verdal and Trondheim. The visit will provide first-hand experience of their innovative approaches and inspire a deeper understanding of sustainability.

The tentative list of Norwegian companies to be visited includes:

1. Innherred Renoasjon: a company active in the circular economy and recycling with a commitment to sustainability and diverse initiatives aimed at creating a greener and more conscious future.
2. Ecopro: a company that, through their innovative gas creation processes, turns waste into a valuable resource to contribute to a greener and more efficient energy landscape.
3. Skogn Retura IR: a company implementing sustainable wood recycling practices, minimizing environmental impact and promoting a circular approach to wood use.
4. Livid: a sustainable fashion company using innovative methods to both source materials and reduce waste from the production process.

If you are a representative of a small and medium-sized enterprise and are interested in participating in the visit, please send us a completed participation form located at this address no later than 01.06.2023 at 5:00 p.m. After consideration of the applications, the total number of participants that will be admitted to participate is 5.

The expenses for the travel and accommodation of the participants will be covered by the Ruse Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It is a mandatory condition for the participants who submit a request to participate in the visit to have a valid foreign travel passport.

For more information regarding the organization of the visit, you can contact Irena Ivanova via the following email: ivanova@rcci.bg or by phone: +359 82 825875

The visit is organized as part of the "Green Change Agents" project, funded by the Norwegian Financial Mechanism, in partnership with Prios Kompetans, Norway.

If you are under the age of 19 and have an interesting idea for developing a business, you can share more about it with us through the Business Model canvas or a short video where you can tell us more about the main idea, the planned activities, the key partners, as well as the ways and the channels for spreading information about your future business.

If we managed to grab your interest, you can follow these steps to enter the contest:

• Tell us about your business idea by filling out the Business Model Canvas template you can find here. If communication is your strong point, you can answer the same questions by recording a short video (no longer than 5 minutes).
• Create a user profile on the learning platform available at this address and use the already created username and password to enter the platform (currently only available in English).
• Once you have accessed the platform, click on "CONTEST" and attach the completed Business Model canvas (Upload File) or video (Submit Video), filling in the remaining required fields (country, title of your business idea, short description, etc.). When all this is ready, all you have to do is press the "SUBMIT" button and your idea has already been submitted for evaluation!

The deadline for submitting business ideas is September 23, 2022, and the winners will be announced on September 29, 2022 at the European Conference in Bilbao, Spain.

The author of the winning business idea will have the opportunity to win cash prize worth 300 EUR.

For contacts - Irena Ivanova, E-mail: ivanova@rcci.bg, contact phone: 082 825 878

The competition is organized within the School Starters' Hub project, funded by the Erasmus+ program of the EU. If you want to learn more, you can take a look the project website, as well as his Facebook page.

We would appreciate it if you could take a few minutes to give us your opinion:

• If you are a person with hearing loss, the following survey is intended for you: https://forms.gle/xzUwSdxxcpwXJnhh6 
• If you are an organization or professional working with people with hearing loss/deaf people, you can complete the survey designed for you: https://forms.gle/bP2VUMu1iMHN5UfNA

The Signing Banks project is funded by the EU's Erasmus+ program and aims to promote the full financial inclusion of people with hearing loss/deaf people and their financial literacy.

More information about the project and upcoming activities can be found on its official website, which is fully adapted for use by people with hearing loss, as it has been translated into international sign language: https://www.signingbanks.eu