2025-07-18
On July 16–18, 2025, international training sessions “Digital Inclusion Strategies and Methods” organized by UAB IT AKADEMIJA took place at the Zarasai District Municipal Public Library. The training is part of the 2021–2027 INTERREG VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme project “Empowering Everyone: Establishing Advanced Family Digital Activity Centres in Latvia and Lithuania” (DigiAll, LL-00201). The project is co-financed by the European Union. The main objective of the training was to strengthen librarians’ competencies in working with socially vulnerable groups, deepen their knowledge of inclusive education, and introduce modern digital tools.
Justinas Burokas, Vice-Rector of the partner and consulting organization UAB “Žmogaus studijų centras”, member of the Board of the Lithuanian Association of Applied Psychology and member of the editorial board of the journal “Applied Psychology”, conducted practical sessions on the topic “Education of Vulnerable Individuals and Effective Communication”. During the training, the emotional and psychological needs of vulnerable individuals (including persons with physical or emotional disabilities and refugees) were analyzed, and the impact of experienced emotional trauma on their behavior was discussed. Particular attention was given to effective cooperation and communication, fostering a positive and respectful relationship. The lecturer also provided guidance on managing complex communication situations, resolving conflicts, and responding to unreasonable demands.
The training was also delivered by Rigonda Skorulskienė, expert physics teacher at Kaunas Jesuit Gymnasium and head of the Lithuanian Association of Physics Teachers. The lecturer introduced the importance, meaning, and principles of digital inclusion, emphasizing that digital inclusion ensures that all people—regardless of age, education, place of residence, or abilities—can access and benefit from digital technologies. Methods for identifying digital inclusion needs and planning interactive activities were also discussed. Participants were introduced to “Google for Education” resources and various artificial intelligence (AI) tools.
We sincerely thank the lecturers Justinas Burokas and Rigonda Skorulskienė for their comprehensive and valuable knowledge and practical advice, which will undoubtedly help librarians more effectively carry out the mission of digital inclusion. We also thank all participants for their active engagement and for creating a positive and collaborative atmosphere. Special thanks to Utena A. and M. Miškiniai Public Library for the successful implementation of the project, the trust shown, and the invitation to cooperate.
This publication was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of UAB IT AKADEMIJA and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.
