The SPECIAL project – Development of a cross-border mentoring model for enhancing special educational needs support in the South Adriatic region officially launches with a Kick-off Meeting held on 18 December 2025 at Hotel Ramada, Podgorica.

The project addresses a pressing challenge across the South Adriatic region: the need to strengthen educators’ skills and to introduce a more coordinated and standardized approach to supporting students with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Differences in educational resources, methodologies, and access to inclusive services continue to limit opportunities for many SEN students, particularly in cross-border contexts.

SPECIAL aims to develop and implement a comprehensive mentoring model designed to improve educational outcomes and professional orientation for SEN students. At the core of the project is the use of Individual Transition Plans (ITP), which will support students as they move between educational stages and prepare for their entry into the labour market. By improving continuity and guidance, the project seeks to enhance inclusion, participation, and independence for SEN students, contributing to a more inclusive society.

Key outputs of the project include the development of the mentoring model, the creation of training materials and practical guides for educators, and the organisation of workshops for teachers, parents, and professionals. These activities will directly benefit SEN students while strengthening the competences of those involved in their education and personal development.

With a total approved budget of €621,974, SPECIAL is implemented by a partnership of five organisations, led by NVO STAZE (Montenegro). Project partners include NGO Djeca Crne Gore (Montenegro), MEDPAK (Albania), MERIDIA (Italy), and EDOFORM (Italy).

The SPECIAL project represents an important step towards more effective, coordinated, and inclusive support systems for students with special educational needs across the South Adriatic region.

Download the Agenda HERE.