On February 19, 2026, the SMK College of Applied Sciences signed a financing agreement with the Central Project Management Agency for the implementation of the project ” Belonging Among Others: Social Integration in the Community” (hereinafter referred to as the Project). The Project is financed by the Swiss Confederation and the state budget of the Republic of Lithuania (Cooperation Programme between the Swiss Confederation and the Republic of Lithuania 2022-2029).
Project objective
To strengthen the abilities and motivation of women and children (ages 10–18) who are citizens of third countries and live in Lithuania to actively participate in public life, thereby creating conditions for their greater integration within municipalities.
Main problem addressed by the project
Women and children (ages 10–18) who are third-country nationals living in Lithuania represent one of the most vulnerable groups, whose integration into society is full of challenges. Young migrant women often face language barriers, limited self-confidence, instances of discrimination in the labor market, and difficulties in forming social connections. Minor children face different challenges—they must quickly adapt to a new education system, learn the language, integrate into peer groups, and cope with the risk of bullying or social rejection.
For these reasons, both target groups frequently experience social isolation, reduced opportunities to participate in public life, and limited prospects for integration at the municipal level.
Target Groups
- Women who are citizens of third countries and live in Lithuania
- Children (ages 10–18) who are citizens of third countries and live in Lithuania
Project Activities
The project addresses the main integration barriers faced by third-country national women and children in Lithuania. The planned activities will help reduce language-related difficulties by providing opportunities to learn Lithuanian consistently and develop practical communication skills. Psychosocial support and emotional well-being lectures will strengthen self-confidence, reduce stress and anxiety, while cultural education activities will promote intercultural dialogue and understanding of Lithuanian societal traditions.
Practical activities—such as volunteering or professional skills development—will enable participants to apply their knowledge in real-life settings, build connections, and experience a sense of belonging to the community.
The project will include Lithuanian language courses, psychosocial consultations, emotional well-being lectures, cultural education activities in libraries and museums, and practical activities within communities, including volunteering and professional skills development. These measures will ensure that participants acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed in daily life, education, the labor market, and community involvement.
Project Results
The results will be reflected in strengthened language and social skills, increased self-confidence, reduced anxiety levels, and greater motivation to participate in society. The project will contribute not only to short-term changes but also to long-term continuity of participant integration.
Project Partners
- VA Caritas Social Projects Charity and Support Fund
- Klaipėda County Ieva Simonaitytė Public Library
- Kretinga Museum
- Caritas of the Archdiocese of Vilnius
