Lõkke 4 / 10122 Tallinn / 663 8200 / [email protected] / www.rtk.ee / Registrikood 70007340

Benedikt Hürzeler

Embassy of Switzerland to Latvia, Lithuania

and Estonia

[email protected] Ours 24.09.2026 no 11.1-5/26/1994-1

Smilšu iela 8 Riga

LATVIA

Reimbursement Request No 3, Support

Measure "Supporting Social Inclusion"

Dear Mr Hürzeler,

Hereby the Paying Authority of the Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme submits the

Reimbursement Request No 3 of the Ministry of Culture for the Support Measure "Supporting

Social Inclusion" covering the period from 01 January 2026 to 30 June 2026.

Yours sincerely,

(signed digitally)

Karin Viikmaa

Head of the Grants Payment Department

Annex:

1. Reimbursement Request RR 3 SSIP 7F-10699.01

Helena Musthallik +372 56466003

[email protected]

VALIDITY CONFIRMATION SHEET SIGNED FILES

FILE NAME FILE SIZE

Reimbursement Request No 3, Support Measure Supporting Social Inclusion.pdf 364 KB

SIGNERS

NO. NAME PERSONAL CODE TIME

KARIN VIIKMAA1 47410180248 24.09.2026 17:08:11 +03:00

VALIDITY OF SIGNATURE

SIGNATURE IS VALID

ROLE / RESOLUTION

PLACE OF CONFIRMATION (CITY, STATE, ZIP, COUNTRY)

SERIAL NUMBER OF SIGNER CERTIFICATE

6a:b3:54:b2:b7:d6:f8:47:62:bd:56:54:a4:80:9c:52

ISSUER OF CERTIFICATE AUTHORITY KEY IDENTIFIER

ESTEID2018 D9 AC 70 DB 5F 7E BE 94 F8 A0 E4 BE 47 A2 D0 34 AD 9A 2A 12

HASH VALUE OF SIGNATURE 30 4F 30 0B 06 09 60 86 48 01 65 03 04 02 03 04 40 94 26 9B F3 12 A7 A1 1E D9 1B A3 95 C1 D2 D8 99 17 4E 82 50 35 6C D4 E5 6A 5E F2 CF A0 FD 79 84 04 BB 7F 8A 11 6A 90 9C DE 37 93 37 0C 65 CB 17 6F 04 D7 41 4E 3D 49 2B 68 ED 2C 90 42 72 86 0B

The print out of files listed in the section "Signed Files" are inseparable part of this Validity Confirmation Sheet.

NOTES

Presented print summary is informative to confirm existence of signed file with given hash value. The print summary itself does not have independent verification value. Declaration of signers’ signature can be verified only through digitally signed file.

Instructions

Support Measure Title

Support Measure Identification Code

Support Measure duration from to

Name of Executing Agency (EA)

Reporting period from to

Reimbursement Request No

Total Support Measure Budget (local currency) EUR

Maximum Swiss contribution (CHF) CHF

Swiss co-financing rate on total budget 85,00% 85,00%

Exchange rate used CHF/EUR 01.09.2026

Total amount requested EUR CHF

National co-financing EUR CHF

Deductions (according to Regulations 11.4/3) EUR CHF

Swiss co-financing = Reimbursement by CH EUR CHF

Maximum Swiss Contribution CHF

Cumulative amount received from Switzerland CHF

Available amount before the current reimbursement CHF

Total amount of current reimbursement request CHF

Remaining amount after the current reimbursement CHF

Name of the institution:

Address:

Name of the contact person:

Position:

Email:

Phone number:

Name: Merilin Piipuu Position:

Place, date and signature

Ministry of Culture

(i) that the Support Measure is implemented in accordance with the Support Measure Agreement and Support Measure Implementation

Agreement;

(ii) the reporting under Physical Progress, Financial Progress and Procurement Plan is true and accurate;

(iii) that the reporting under Financial Progress reflects correctly the incurred expenditures;

(iv) that recoverable VAT is not included in the Financial Progress as eligible expense;

(v) that no double-financing occurs;

(vi) that all procurements for which expenditures were incurred during the reporting period have been conducted in compliance with the

applicable law of the Partner State and EU directives on public procurement.

Olga Gnezdovski

Coordinator of the Estonian-Swiss Cooperation Programme

[email protected]

+37255528081

Secretary General

digitally signed

The Executing Agency hereby certifies

3

1 079 130,55

0,00

18 600 000,00

1,066 Date of exchange rate

B. Amount requested by the Paying Authority

22 671 890,11

1 012 656,11

0,00

1 269 565,36

on total expenditures

1 191 360,14

190 434,81

Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme

Reimbursement Request No. 3

Supporting Social Inclusion

30.06.2026

7F-10699.01Šveits.1.01

Ministry of Culture

01.01.2026

Supporting Social Inclusion

A. Basic information

01.06.2024 31.08.2028

Estonia

C. Available amount from the Swiss Contribution

178 704,03

18 600 000,00 100,00%

792 874,35

Suur-Karja 23,15076 Tallinn, Estonia

4,26%

5,44%

95,74%

1 012 656,11

17 807 125,65

16 794 469,54 90,29%

Executing Agency: Programme Operator

D. Certification and approval of Reimbursement Request

template v13.7.23 Reimbursement Request Page 1

Name of the institution:

Address:

Name of the contact person:

Position:

Email:

Phone number:

Name: Urmo Merila Position:

Date and signature

Paying Authority

Name of the institution:

Address:

Name of the contact person:

Position:

Email:

Phone number:

The Paying Authority hereby certifies

The bank details for reimbursement are as follows:

Beneficiary: Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Estonia

IBAN: EE891010220034796011

SWIFT: EEUHEE2X

Reference: 2550081357

Name: Karin Viikmaa Position:

Date and signature

State Shared Service Centre

Lõkke 4, 10122 Tallinn

Head of the Grants Payment Department

+37256466003

Helena Musthallik

programme expert

[email protected]

Deputy Director General

(i) that the information and financial data provided in this Reimbursement Request has been thoroughly reviewed and found to be

correct, reliable and accurate;

(ii) that claimed expenditures are incurred as part of the Support Measure in accordance with the Framework Agreement, the relevant

Support Measure Agreement and Support Measure Implementation Agreement;

(iii) that all payments declared have actually been made in the indicated (or exceptionally previous) reporting period;

(iv) the compliance with state aid rules of all activities performed in the reporting period.

digitally signed

The National Coordination Unit hereby certifies

National Coordination Unit

digitally signed

(i) to have checked the conformity of the Reimbursement Request with the financial stipulations, in particular the co-financing rate, set

out in the relevant Support Measure Agreement;

(ii) to have received sufficient information for the certification of the Reimbursement Request;

(iii) to have checked the compliance of the Reimbursement Request with the information available to the Paying Authority;

(iv) that the co-financing of the Partner State has been provided in accordance with the relevant Support Measure Agreement;

(v) that based on the information available to the Paying Authority no double-financing could be identified;

(vi) that recoverable VAT is not included in the Reimbursement Request as eligible expense.

Lõkke 4, 10122 Tallinn

State Shared Service Centre

Janika Otsing

financial specialist

[email protected]

+3726631926

template v13.7.23 Reimbursement Request Page 2

Instructions

01.06.2024 30.06.2025 01.07.2025 31.12.2025 01.01.2026 30.06.2026

EUR % CHF EUR CHF CHF CHF EUR CHF CHF CHF EUR CHF CHF CHF CHF CHF CHF

No Budget items Budget

100%

Co-financing

rate (CH co-

financing)

Swiss

contribution (co-

financing)

Eligible

expenditures

100%

Eligible

expenditures

100%

National co-

financing

Swiss

contribution

(co-financing)

Eligible

expenditures

100%

Eligible

expenditures

100%

National co-

financing

Swiss

contribution

(co-financing)

Eligible

expenditures

100%

Eligible

expenditures

100%

National co-

financing

Swiss

contribution

(co-financing)

Eligible

expenditures

100%

% of Budget

spent

Total remaining

Budget

Eligible

Expenditures

100%

Swiss

contribution

(co-financing)

% of Swiss

Contribution

spent

Total remaining

Swiss

contribution

Reimbursements

expected to be

received from

Switzerland (current

year)

Reimbursements

expected to be

received from

Switzerland (year +1)

Reimbursements

expected to be

received from

Switzerland

(year +2)

Exchange rate CHF/EUR 1,036 1,070 1,104 1,066

1 Management Costs 1 542 928,07 85,00% 1 265 816,92 94 173,24 87 995,48 13 199,32 74 796,16 35 020,49 31 707,55 4 756,14 26 951,41 134 906,48 126 596,24 18 989,44 107 606,80 264 100,21 17,12% 1 278 827,86 246 299,27 209 354,37 16,54% 1 056 462,55 0,00 165 732,00 890 730,55

1,1 Personnel 692 732,00 60 048,06 30 853,01 53 180,58 144 081,65 20,80% 548 650,35

1,2 Meetings, seminars and visits 140 000,00 3 253,87 2 290,48 819,55 6 363,90 4,55% 133 636,10

1,3 Swiss experts and partners 543 776,11 0,00 0,00 79 169,16 79 169,16 14,56% 464 606,95

1,4 Information and communication 154 000,01 30 790,79 1 877,00 1 737,19 34 404,98 22,34% 119 595,03

1,5 Reserve costs 12 419,95 80,52 0,00 0,00 80,52 0,65% 12 339,43

2 Programme Component 1 “Cultural and linguistic

integration” 6 816 349,13 85,00% 5 592 127,22 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 380 998,54 344 956,08 51 743,42 293 212,66 459 688,12 431 371,33 64 705,70 366 665,63 840 686,66 12,33% 5 975 662,47 776 327,41 659 878,29 11,80% 4 932 248,93 0,00 1 274 187,00 3 658 061,93

2,1 Programme Component coordinator MoC 148 389,03 . 0,00 6 234,59 2 007,00 8 241,59 5,55% 140 147,44

2,2 Overheads 445 929,38 0,00 24 925,27 30 073,11 54 998,38 12,33% 390 931,00

2,3 Activity 1: Preparation of digital transformation in the field

of integration (incl personnel costs) 1 446 121,03 0,00 38 221,51 28 036,20 66 257,71 4,58% 1 379 863,32

2,4 Activity 2: Inclusion of volunteers in the integration

activities (incl personnel costs) 910 648,12 0,00 43 369,04 69 887,73 113 256,77 12,44% 797 391,35

2,5 Activity 3: Provision of counselling services including in

language learning (incl personnel costs) 870 453,10 0,00 87 903,15 87 299,72 175 202,87 20,13% 695 250,23

2,6 Activity 4: Activities introducing the Estonian cultural

space (incl personnel costs) 2 023 214,40 0,00 41 920,04 122 996,83 164 916,87 8,15% 1 858 297,53

2,7 Activity 5: Provision of media literacy training (incl

personnel costs) 971 594,07 0,00 138 424,94 119 387,53 257 812,47 26,53% 713 781,60

3 Programme Component 2 "Strengthening the social-

and child protection services" 6 564 705,00 85,00% 5 385 678,58 22 798,42 21 302,84 3 195,42 18 107,42 265 650,57 240 520,03 36 078,01 204 442,02 268 730,24 252 176,46 37 826,47 214 349,99 557 179,23 8,49% 6 007 525,77 513 999,33 436 899,43 8,11% 4 948 779,15 0,00 2 400 226,00 2 548 553,15

3,1 Programme Component coordinator in MoSA 109 012,50 21 306,94 12 042,01 13 095,50 46 444,45 42,60% 62 568,05

3,2 Activity 1:curricula and professional qualification

modification (incl personnel costs) 2 622 140,19 0,00 71 020,01 71 459,67 142 479,68 5,43% 2 479 660,51

3,3 Activity 2: training and counselling system (incl personnel

costs) 3 404 085,63 0,00 165 209,63 166 594,60 331 804,23 9,75% 3 072 281,40

3,4 Overheads 429 466,68 1 491,48 17 378,92 17 580,47 36 450,87 8,49% 393 015,81

4 Programme Component 3 “Increasing multicultural

competence in the education sector” 6 531 885,12 85,00% 5 358 753,18 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 355 894,43 333 971,34 50 095,71 283 875,63 355 894,43 5,45% 6 175 990,69 333 971,34 283 875,63 5,30% 5 074 877,55 0,00 1 085 865,00 3 989 012,55

4,1 Programme Component coordinator in MoER 102 600,00 0,00 0,00 44 920,22 44 920,22 43,78% 57 679,78

4,2 Overheads* 62 765,30 0,00 0,00 13 345,31 13 345,31 21,26% 49 419,99

4,3 Activity 1. In-service training for professionals in the

education sector (incl personnel costs) 5 572 472,72 0,00 0,00 151 902,00 151 902,00 2,73% 5 420 570,72

4,3,1 Activity 1 coordinator in the Education and Youth Board 152 617,50 0,00 0,00 17 233,44 17 233,44 11,29% 135 384,06

4,4 Activity 2. Informing, consulting and supporting parents,

including parents from different cultural and linguistic

backgrounds (incl personnel costs) 641 429,60 0,00 0,00 128 493,46 128 493,46 20,03% 512 936,14

5 Programme Component 4 “Strengthening civil society

through social innovation.” 1 216 022,79 85,00% 997 624,10 95 872,08 89 582,87 13 437,43 76 145,44 128 924,80 116 728,51 17 509,27 99 219,24 50 346,09 47 244,77 7 086,71 40 158,06 275 142,97 22,63% 940 879,82 253 556,15 215 522,74 21,60% 782 101,36 0,00 476 950,00 305 151,36

5,1 Programme Component Coordinator in MoI 44 103,97 2 448,54 4 897,09 5 007,94 12 353,57 28,01% 31 750,40

5,2 Overheads* 79 552,89 6 271,98 8 434,31 3 293,67 17 999,96 22,63% 61 552,93

5,3 Building civil society competence, raising public awareness

and disseminating information on social innovation (incl

personnel costs) 1 092 365,93 87 151,56 115 593,40 42 044,48 244 789,44 22,41% 847 576,49

TOTAL 22 671 890,11 85,00% 18 600 000,00 212 843,74 198 881,19 29 832,17 169 049,02 810 594,40 733 912,17 110 086,84 623 825,33 1 269 565,36 1 191 360,14 178 704,03 1 012 656,11 2 293 003,50 10,11% 20 378 886,61 2 124 153,50 1 805 530,46 9,71% 16 794 469,54 0,00 5 402 960,00 11 391 509,54

PLANNING

Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme

Supporting Social Inclusion / Reimbursement Request No. 3

Financial Progress

BUDGET CUMULATIVE DATA REPORTING PERIOD 1: REPORTING PERIOD 2: REPORTING PERIOD 3:

CHFEUR

Financial Progress Page 3

The costs are reported to the Swiss side with a time lag, as only expenditures that have been verified and paid by the NCU can be declared. Therefore, the cumulative percentage of expenditure remains relatively low and does not fully reflect the numerous activities that have already been implemented. In addition, the activities have been implemented in a cost-efficient manner. As of the end of July, in

addition to the amount declared in this reimbursement request, approximately 160 000 EUR had already been paid out, while claims amounting to approximately 600 000 EUR are currently under review by the NCU.

No advance payments were foreseen.

Information on modifications of the Support Measure approved during the reporting period

According to Regulation Article 4.12

Information on non-eligible expenditures during the reporting period

Please indicate the amount of non-eligible expenditures during the reporting period. Why are the expenditures non-eligible (for example due to irregularities or because it was agreed during the approval process of the SM that the costs are non-eligible)? Who will finance the non-eligible expenditures?

1) At the meeting held on 5 March 2026, the Steering Committee agreed that where full disaggregation of indicators related to target groups with different cultural and linguistic backgrounds is not possible, an estimation-based approach (e.g. using regional demographic statistics or registration data) may be applied (for further information, please refer to the protocol).

2) There were some changes that have no budgetary effect and do not contradict the agreed outputs and outcomes of the Programme, nor change its duration. Those were agreed with the Programme Operator and the NCU as part of the approval process for modifications to the conditions for implementing activities:

* Component 2: The Support Measure Proposal foresaw the engagement of all potential target group schools in the sector, i.e. 3 higher education schools and 7 vocational schools in curricula development, as well as the updating of 5 social welfare curricula. During the first quarter of 2026, the Ministry of Social Affairs organised a partnership invitation process among educational institutions in the

sector to identify partners for the modernisation of curricula. As a result of this process, partnership agreements were concluded with 3 higher education schools (Tallinn University, University of Tartu Pärnu College and TTK University of Applied Sciences) as well as 5 vocational educational schools (Valgamaa Vocational Training Centre,Haapsalu Vocational Education and Training Centre, Järvamaa

Vocational College, Kuressaare Regional Training Centre and Tartu Applied Health Sciences University). Together, these institutions will update a total of 10 curricula. Therefore, while the number of partner institutions is lower than initially planned, the number of curricula to be updated is higher, which is fully in line with the indicator OPI 2.2.

* Component 3: The term "parents' councils" was used in the Support Measure Proposal. However, such bodies are not mandatory in Estonian schools and therefore do not exist in all schools. To maximise the reach of the project, the activities were designed to engage parents directly rather than through parents' councils. The high participation rates and positive feedback from parents demonstrate

that this approach has been successful and well justified, while remaining fully aligned with the objectives of the project.

There are no deductions related to financial corrections.

Information on advance payments

According to Art. 8.3. of the Regulations the Partner State may in exceptional cases agree with Switzerland on advance payments. If these are foreseen in the Support Measure Agreement, describe how the advance payment will be used in the upcoming reimbursement period and provide proof for the execution of the advance payment by the Partner State.

Information on deductions related to financial corrections (Art 11.4/3 Regulations)

In case of a financial correction already paid by Switzerland and deducted in this Reimbusement Request, please indicate the budget item, reporting period in question and provide explanation on the deduction made / refer to irregularity report.

No non-eligible expenditures were indicated during the reporting period.

Information regarding deviations from financial planning

If there is a significant difference between the expenditures planned for this reporting period and the actual expenditures paid by the Paying Authority, justify the deviations. Also explain if the financial planning in this reimbursement request significantly differs from the financial planning in the previous reimbursement requests.If there is a cost overrun per budget item, describe how the additional costs

will be covered.

Financial Progress Page 4

No

1,1

1,2

1,3

1,4

1,5

N/A

No

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and linguistic integration”

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme

Supporting Social Inclusion / Reimbursement Request No. 3

Operational Progress

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

Personnel:

There were no changes in the Programme Operator team during the reporting period.

The programme coordinator at the Ministry of Culture manages and coordinates the support measure, carrying out necessary administrative activities, drafting regular reports, ensuring smooth

communication between parties, monitoring the overall implementation and timeline, and planning and coordinating programme-related events and meetings. The coordinator is also supported by other

employees of the ministry, such as the Head of Foreign Financing and the Communication Advisor.

The NCU controls expenditures paid from the support measure.

Meetings, seminars and visits:

During the reporting period, the Steering Committee met once, on 5 March 2026. Two meetings of the Task Force were held and two written procedures were carried out.

In addition, several other meetings took place between the relevant parties in connection with the programme in order to support smooth communication and effective implementation.

Swiss experts and partners:

Cooperation with the Swiss partner, Bern University of Applied Sciences, is active, constructive and valuable, and has proceeded in accordance with the agreed action plan for 2026.

During the first part of 2026, the following activities took place:

* in April, a joint study visit to Switzerland was organised for Components 1 and 4, with participation of the Swiss Contribution Office representatives;

* initial expert feedback was provided on the “Volunteers Engagement Model” within Component 1 (to be continued in the next reporting period);

* within Component 2, a series of workshops were held on topics including integrating practical training into social work curricula, clinical social work competences, employee support, and continuing

education in social work;

* within Component 3, co-teaching at Tallinn University was carried out, and several workshops were held addressing different conceptualisations of multilingualism and multiculturalism, as well as the

integration of multiculturalism into initial teacher training;

* Swiss experts are contributing to the preparation of a forthcoming manual of the National Foundation of Civil Society under Component 4.

Reserve costs:

No reserve costs were used during the reporting period.

Management Costs

Information and communication:

An article summarising the main achievements of the Support Measure in 2025 and outlining the focus areas for 2026 was published on the blog of the Ministry of Culture called "Kuva"

(https://www.kul.ee/uudised/sveitsi-eesti-koostooprogrammi-hetkeseis-ja-tulevik).

Social media post about the Steering Committee meeting was done.

In communication activities the coordinator is supported by the Communication Adviser of the ministry.

Operational Progress Page 5

2,1

2,3

2,4

Programme Component coordination (MoC):

During the reporting period, the focus was on implementing the activities agreed in the detailed Action Plan for 2026.

The Component 1 team actively participated in regular meetings, including online workshops with the Bern University of Applied Sciences, as well as meetings of the Support Measure Steering Committee

and Task Force. In February, the joint cooperation day was organised for all coordinators and project managers of Component 1 to discuss common topics and challenges. Also, the representatives of

Component 1 (together with Component 4) had a possibility to participate in a study visit in Switzerland in April. These meetings and joint activities enabled the exchange of information and experience and

ensured coordinated action.

Activity 1: Preparation of digital transformation in the field of integration:

The current reporting period saw the realisation of multiple initiatives from previous periods, thus creating tangible results concerning the project's indicators. In April 2026, the analysis of current digital

systems for facilitating the integration of foreigners was finalised. The final report consists of a detailed AS-IS situation analysis, as well as five in-depth future scenarios on how to better develop and

integrate existing systems to address current issues, maximise effectiveness, increase quality, and future-proof the digital ecosystem in the integration field.

Highlights from the 460-page report were shared with relevant stakeholders at an event hosted by the Ministry of Culture. The colleagues of INSA and MoC began initial discussions on how to move forward

with the results of the analysis, with discussions set to continue throughout summer 2026.

In parallel, developments to the INSA client service digital environment “PESA” were carried out based on the interim results of the analysis. These developments aim to improve the PESA system, as well

as make it more compliant with upcoming changes. Completion of this analysis also means that the project's output indicator OPI 1.17 is now fulfilled.

The reporting period also saw the preparation of a tender for the creation of a new digital tool. This tool is a self-check solution for adult individuals interested in applying for Estonian citizenship through

naturalisation. The self-check tool allows users to answer basic questions, helping the system suggest how many of the requirements the person has fulfilled. In cases of unmet requirements, the system

directs users to relevant next steps. It also includes information blocks and other useful features needed for the naturalisation journey.

A similar digital tool does not currently exist in Estonia. Therefore, during the tender preparation process, great emphasis was placed on understanding the client journey, as well as creating the best value-

for-money technical solution for the upcoming tool. The tender process was conducted successfully, and a software development partner has already started working regularly with INSA on the development

of the tool. The development is expected to be completed by autumn 2026, thereby adding one output under indicator OPI 1.15 (out of total target of three).

The reporting period also included developments in international cooperation. A joint study visit by INSA and MoC to Switzerland served as a starting point for dialogue with the IOM Head Office in Geneva,

as well as opening potential for cooperation with the Swiss Red Cross. Both of these organisations already have extensive experience in developing digital tools for migrant integration. Follow-up meetings

were held after the study visit, and discussions are ongoing on how best to utilise international cooperation in a field in which both opportunities and challenges are becoming increasingly global in nature.

Activity 2: Inclusion of volunteers in the integration activities:

During the reporting period, the volunteer involvement model was completed in cooperation with an external partner, including role descriptions, cooperation agreements and volunteer pathways. The

development process ensured alignment with integration services and practical implementation. Following the finalisation of the model, preparations for pilot implementation were also initiated.

The volunteer e-course on the Digiriigi Akadeemia (Digital State Academy) platform was completed and tested with volunteers. The course is 8 academic hours long and designed as a mandatory entry-

level training for all new volunteers.

In parallel, the INSA volunteer leaders model was developed together with 13 volunteers through six dedicated meetings, defining roles, expectations and support needs for volunteer leaders.

Development of a client management and self-service environment supporting volunteer involvement was initiated, enabling volunteers to register, manage their data and participate in activities.

Preparations were made to integrate e-course results into this system.

A volunteer communication framework was initiated in cooperation with a communication partner to increase awareness and engagement.

During the reporting period, a volunteer summer seminar (with nearly 80 participants) was organised to acknowledge and thank existing volunteers, celebrate the progress made in the volunteer field and

strengthen the sense of community. These activities supported volunteer motivation, engagement and retention. In addition, a training on empathetic communication was provided to volunteers as a

supporting activity, strengthening their communication skills. Approximately 35 people participated in this first additional training sessions, which lasted 1.5 hours.

A recruitment process was initiated to find a volunteer field specialist, who will act as the main contact point for volunteers and support coordination of activities.

International cooperation continued, including participation in a conference in Lithuania and a study visit to Switzerland. Cooperation with the Bern University of Applied Sciences was also initiated to provide

expert feedback on parts of the volunteer model in the next reporting period.

Operational Progress Page 6

2,5

2,5

2,6

Activity 3: Provision of counselling services including in language learning:

During the first half of 2026, counselling services were further expanded and developed. Counsellors provided peer-to-peer counselling, independent language learning counselling, and language learning,

adaptation, and integration counselling. Services were delivered through individual counselling sessions, group counselling sessions, and information sessions.

A total of 903 counselling sessions were delivered during the reporting period, including 319 individual counselling sessions, 456 participants in group counselling sessions, and 128 participants in

information sessions.

Across all service formats, 88 participants received peer-to-peer counselling services, 570 participants received independent language learning counselling, and 235 participants received language learning,

adaptation, and integration counselling.

Individual counselling consisted of 32 peer-to-peer counselling sessions, 77 independent language learning counselling sessions, and 210 language learning, adaptation, and integration counselling

sessions. Group counselling sessions included 24 participants in peer-to-peer counselling groups and 432 participants in independent language learning counselling groups. Information sessions included

32 participants in peer-to-peer counselling sessions, 61 participants in independent language learning counselling sessions, 25 participants in language learning, adaptation, and integration counselling

sessions, and 10 participants in focus group sessions.

The counselling services reached a diverse group of participants. In total, 654 women, 188 men, and 61 participants who did not provide gender information received counselling services. Among all

participants, 168 were migrants from Ukraine, and 164 were forcibly displaced persons holding temporary or international protection.

The study of user needs, carried out in cooperation with an external partner, was successfully completed in April 2026. The research findings were presented, translated into English and shared with the

Swiss project partner (Bern University of Applied Sciences) to support knowledge exchange. Focus group sessions were conducted as part of the research and development process in May 2026 and

provided valuable feedback that will support the continued development and improvement of the counselling services. The second round of focus group sessions will be held in autumn.

Service development continued throughout the reporting period. A service description was being developed, and work on the development of a counselling service standard was initiated. Preparations also

began for the development of a structured counsellor training programme through a public procurement process.

Professional capacity building remained an important focus. A three-day public speaking course was organised for counsellors, with 21 counsellors participating to strengthen their communication and

presentation skills for service delivery and representation.

International cooperation was strengthened through a study visit to Switzerland in April 2026, where the project manager exchanged experiences and good practices with Swiss partners. National

cooperation was also enhanced through a collaboration meeting with Tallinn Migration Centre to explore opportunities for closer coordination of services and referral pathways.

To increase the visibility of the counselling services, the counsellors participated in the Estonian Association of Cities and Municipalities Annual Days with an updated exhibition stand and promotional

materials. Service leaflets were produced, and preparations were made to translate them into English and Russian, further improving access to information for the target groups.

Overall, the first half of 2026 focused on expanding the reach of counselling services, working on service descriptions and quality standard documents (that will be continued in the second half of the year),

enhancing counsellor competencies, and reinforcing both national and international cooperation to ensure the sustainability and long-term impact of the services.

Activity 4: Activities introducing the Estonian cultural space:

Activities to promote the Estonian cultural and customs space have started and will continue until 31 January 2027. The programme consists of workshops, debates, cultural meetings (20 academic hours),

and five study visits.

Clarification: This report presents data from the interim public procurement reports reviewed for the period 01 January – 30 April 2026, focusing solely on groups that concluded during this timeframe.

By 30 April 2026, 9 groups have concluded in Harju County, 3 groups in Ida-Viru County, and 1 group in Tartu; unfortunately, the group in Pärnu could not be launched due to a lack of participants. There

were a total of 892 participations across all groups.

A series of study visits focusing on the Estonian cultural and customs space commenced in January, starting from Tallinn and Narva. These visits cover various locations related to the Estonian cultural and

customs space and aim to encourage Estonian language practice. The study visits will continue until 31 March 2027. According to the interim report from 30 April 2026, a total of 17 study visits have taken

place, with 587 participations recorded. As of 30 June 2026, a total of 26 study visits have taken place, including 16 from Tallinn and 10 from Narva.

On 14 May 2026, a focus group workshop was held regarding activities that promote the Estonian cultural and customs space, providing valuable insights into how the services can be firther improved. The

workshop had 8 participants.

In April, INSA participated in a study visit to Switzerland to explore Swiss integration practices.

During the reporting period, a call for tenders was prepared for a film screening programme in Ida-Viru County focusing on Estonian cultural and customs space, and the contract was awarded to the

partner, Ida-Viru Enterprise Center. The programme has been approved: eight outdoor evening cinema sessions will start on 28 July 2026, and eight indoor cinema sessions will take place between 1

September and 30 November 2026.

Preparations are underway for a call for proposals for a film workshop programme presenting the Estonian cultural and customs space, as well as a call for proposals for a training programme for cultural

institution personnel.

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Programme Component 2 "Strengthening the social-and child protection services"

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Programme Component coordination (MoSA):

In the 1st half of 2026, altogether 8 educational institutions (3 higer education schools Tallinn University, University of Tartu Pärnu College and TTK University of Applied Sciences as well as 5 vocational

educational schools Valgamaa Vocational Training Centre,Haapsalu Vocational Education and Training Centre, Järvamaa Vocational College, Kuressaare Regional Training Centre and Tartu Applied

Health Sciences University) were engaged as partners to the programme component in order to update altogether 5 higher education curricula and 5 vocational education in the social sector.

During the reporting period, activities were implemented according to the agreed action plan.

The Component 2 team actively participated in regular meetings, including online workshops with the Bern University of Applied Sciences, PO and NCU as well as meetings of the Support Measure Steering

Committee and Task Force. These meetings enable the exchange of information and experience and ensure coordinated action.

Activity 1: curricula and professional qualification modification:

In the first half of 2026, activities prepared during 2025 were continued. In the end of 2025, the first version of the Social Sector Competence Framework was completed.

During the first half of 2026, work continued with the development of competence profiles for 13 occupations/occupation roles:

- in social work: Social Work Assistant, Social Worker, Head of Social Services;

- in child protection: Family Worker, Child Protection Worker, Head of Child Protection Services;

- in support work: Day Activity Instructor, Support Worker in Special Care Services;

- in care work: Home Care Worker, Care Worker (Level 3), Care Worker (Level 4), Assistant Care Worker;

- Care Coordinator (tervise teejuht) - a new occupation in Estonia, which aims to integrate social and healthcare services.

In addition, preparatory activities were carried out for the development of competence profiles for further occupations and for the refinement of the sector-wide competence framework in the second half of

2026.

For the development of social sector qualification principles procurement partners were selected in early spring. As part of this activity, a project kick-off seminar was held on 19.05, bringing together

key stakeholders from across the sector, including employers, practitioners, representatives of service user groups, sector experts, and policymakers. During the seminar, participants validated the initial

principles and approach for the qualification framework that had been developed by the Ministry of Social Affairs and procurement partners. The subsequent work on developing the qualification principles is

being carried out through thematic working groups (1. children and families, 2. adult care and support, 3. counselling and specific intervention, 4. management). By the end of June 2026, the

working groups had been established and their membership confirmed.

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

Activity 5: Provision of media literacy training:

The Media Literacy Programme has made strong progress during the first half of 2026. Thirty events were organised across Estonia, involving 847 participations from people with diverse linguistic and

cultural backgrounds (cumulatively 1061 participations during the project period). Activities included media literacy cafés, documentary screenings, seminars for the Ukrainian community, and the first

museum-based media literacy event. Media literacy topics were integrated into B1-level Estonian language classes in Tallinn and Viljandi. The programme further strengthened its learning resources

through the continuous development of the trilingual (EST; RUS; ENG) MeediaRadar website and the introduction of a tablet lending solution to improve access to digital learning materials. Cooperation with

libraries, museums and other partners continued to expand. Preparations are underway for a Russian-language radio series on media literacy and psychology, as well as andragogy training for library staff,

both of which will be launched in the second half of the year.

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All of this has been part of the Government of the Republic's action plan - action point no. 409, according to which the Ministry of Social Affairs was to create competency models and qualification

principles for the social sector workforce by June 2026, which are in line with innovation in the education sector and the changed needs of the labour market and clients. This action was completed on 30

June 2026 by presenting it at the Social Affairs Minister's briefing.These activities lay the groundwork for a modern, competence-based workforce development system in the social sector. They support the

alignment of education, professional qualifications and labour market needs, strengthen career pathways and professional development opportunities, and contribute to more consistent service quality by

establishing a shared understanding of occupational competences across the sector. This is the first time in Estonia that such a systematic approach has been taken to developing the workforce in the social

sector.

During the first quarter of 2026, the Ministry of Social Affairs conducted a public procurement to identify a partner for carrying out the study “Comparative Analysis of International Practices in Child

Protection Service Delivery Models and Career Pathways for the Ministry of Social Affairs .” The procurement procedure was successfully completed, and a contract with the selected partner was

signed in May. An initial meeting between the contracting authority and the research team has been held, and the experts have commenced their work in accordance with the project timeline and

procurement schedule.

During the first quarter of 2026, the Ministry of Social Affairs also organised a partnership invitation process among educational institutions in the sector to identify partners for the modernisation of

curricula. Partnership agreements were concluded in May, bringing a total of eight new higher education and vocational education institutions into the project. The partner institutions will update their

curricula in line with the occupational competence profiles developed within the programme component. The curricula to be revised include those for social work, child protection, care workers, and

support workers in social care services.The partnership consists of eight educational institutions: Tallinn University, TTK University of Applied Sciences, the University of Tartu Pärnu College, Järvamaa,

Haapsalu, Kuressaare, Valgamaa Vocational schools and Tartu Healthcare College.The higher education institutions are updating five social work curricula (three Bachelor’s and two Master’s programmes).

The vocational education institutions and Tartu Health Care College are updating three work-based care worker curricula and two work-based activity instructor curricula.

By 30 June 2026, three institutions had started curriculum development activities. The University of Tartu has analysed the existing curriculum learning outcomes against the new Higher Education

Standard. The analysis showed that the learning outcomes are generally aligned with the requirements; however, digital competencies need to be strengthened. The university has also reviewed compulsory

courses, adjusted course volumes up to 6 ECTS credits, developed an initial module-based curriculum structure, and reviewed practical training arrangements. A study visit to Thomas More University of

Applied Sciences is planned for 15–18 November 2026 to learn from their approach to social work curriculum development.TTK University of Applied Sciences and Haapsalu Vocational Education Centre

have started analysing their existing curricula. Other institutions are preparing curriculum analyses and identifying development needs to ensure alignment with updated professional standards and

educational requirements and have started recruiting experts and building cooperation networks to support curriculum development, including analysing digital learning platforms and innovative teaching

methods.To support professionals in applying for professional qualifications, Estonian Social Work Association (ESWA) organised three writing camps between January and March, with a total of 26 participants. In

the spring application round for the Social Worker Professional Qualification, 9 social workers who had participated in the writing camps submitted applications, successfully obtained the

qualification. The writing camps have proven to be an effective support measure in the professional qualification application process, increasing participants’ readiness and confidence to successfully apply

for professional qualifications.

In April 2026, a professional qualification seminar was held with the aim of harmonising qualification assessment procedures and strengthening collaboration among assessors. The seminar was

attended by 17 participants. The qualification seminars contribute to more consistent and higher-quality assessment and procedural practices.

Regarding the activity of public awareness campaign highlighting new possibilities and positive changes in social care- and child protection studies and work environment, it was decided that the

Social Insurance Board (SIB) would implement the activity instead of the Ministry of Social Affairs. It was also decided that reputation-building activities will not be implemented as one large procurement

and reputation campaign, but as separate, set of several smaller activities that support improving the reputation of the field based on different needs. Activities will be implemented during 2027-

2028. Three main directions to improve the image of the social sector:

-Increasing visibility and positive awareness of the sector

Promoting social work through targeted communication, positive stories, media cooperation, and highlighting the impact of social services and project results.

-Strengthening service quality and trust in the sector

Supporting municipalities with practical guidelines, quality standards, tools, and knowledge-sharing to ensure more consistent and high-quality social services.

-Developing a data-driven and transparent sector

Using data and indicators to demonstrate the impact, quality, and development of social services and to strengthen public trust in the sector.

Market research was conducted for the procurement of a workplace onboarding programme aimed at supporting people with different language and cultural backgrounds in entering employment in

the social sector. As the aim is to ensure the sustainability of the programme by integrating it into a vocational education curriculum, the feedback received was that the curriculum analysis needs to be

completed first and aligned with the updated standards. Only after this step will potential providers be interested in piloting the model. This activity has been postponed to high workload and the potential

providers not seeing the right time for this activity due to the changing qualifications and legal reforms in the field. Therefore, the procurement has been postponed, and the expected timing for launching the

call for proposals is late autumn.

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Activity 2: training and counselling system:

During the first half of 2026, the development and preparation of continuing professional training opportunities for social sector specialists in the Social Insurance Board (SIB) continued. Guidance

materials for the use of the Digital State Academy (Digiriigi Akadeemia) and Articulate Rise 360 platforms were developed, and the training courses “Introduction to Organising Continuing Professional

Training” and “Best Practices in Procuring Training Providers” were delivered for Social Insurance Board (SIB) staff.Preparations were made for the Social Sector Trainers’ Development Day scheduled for

17 August.

At the same time, several new training programmes were prepared and procured for different target groups by SIB, including:

- “Mental Health and Burnout Prevention”,

- “Legal Training for Social Workers”,

- “E-learning Course for Activity Instructors Entering the Profession”,

- “Hybrid Training on Recognising Violence”,

- “Difficult Conversations in Child Protection Work”,

- “Solution-Focused Approach in Working with Children and Families”,

- “Children with Special Needs and Parents with Special Needs in Child Protection Work”,

- “Boundaries, Commitment and Professionalism in Child Protection Work”,

- “Understanding Parenting in Child Protection Work – What to Notice and How to Provide Support”,

- “Coaching Approach in Counselling”,

- “Development Programme for Child Protection Managers”.

Among the respondents who provided feedback on SIB trainings, 73.96% stated that the training provided new knowledge and skills that they could apply in their work.Participants gained a wide range of

knowledge in accordance with the training curricula. The trainings provided practical skills and knowledge on topics such as curriculum development, preparation of technical specifications, conducting

procurement procedures, and the importance of collecting and using feedback system ( internal trainings). The practitioners trainings contributed to improving participants’ communication skills and

supported more effective interaction with families, children, partners, and colleagues.

Trainings were also carried out by ESWA. Between May and June, ESWA organised training courses on ethics and self-care for care workers, as well as digital skills training for social workers.

The trainings covered ethical dilemmas, self-care, professional boundaries, burnout prevention, and the use of artificial intelligence in social work, including the analysis of legal acts and documents and the

drafting of work-related texts.

Trainings in numbers:

During the first half of 2026, a total of 8 training sessions were delivered by the Social Insurance Board (SIB), with 174 attending. One training was conducted online through Digiriigi Akadeemia

platform and involved 52 participants. The remaining seven trainings were delivered in person, including five in Tallinn, one in Tartu, and one in Rakvere. A total of 2 training programmes were delivered

by ESWA, with 171 participants attending. Ethics and self-care training courses for care workers took place in Saaremaa, Jõhvi, Paide and Tartu during May and early June. From April to early June,

digital skills training courses for social workers were conducted in Tartu and Tallinn.

Of the participants who provided feedback on SIB trainings, 73.96% stated that the training provided new knowledge and skills that could be applied in their work. The total number of participants in the

training courses delivered during the first half of 2026 was 345 people of whom 212 work with adults and 133 work with children, of them 335 were women and 10 men. Feedback to the training

was given by 248 participants

Compared to the trainings delivered by the Estonian Association of Social Work (ESWA), participant ratings and response rates were higher in ESWA's trainings (88.9% compared to 55.2% in SIB). One

possible explanation is that, starting from April 2026, ESWA systematically introduced QR code-based feedback collection. At the same time, differences in target groups and training formats should also be

considered when interpreting the results. The findings indicate that feedback collection for SIB’s e-learning courses, in particular, would benefit from further improvement.

The professional profile for the Care Coordinator (tervise teejuht) was completed on 15 June and will serve as the basis for developing a curriculum for the new role integrating health and social care

services. Two market research activities were conducted with five potential educational institutions providing training in both fields to identify suitable approaches for commissioning a new integrated health

and social care training format. The procurement terms of reference will be submitted to SSSC (State Shared Service Centre) by 1 August.

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A resource section "Nipinurk" has been developed on ESWA's website, bringing together practical materials, recommendations, and resources that support professional well-being and self-care. Further

development work is ongoing to create more interactive content and a new stucture for the "Nipinurk" has been developed.

The development of the ethics compass and the completion of the social workers’ professional confidence study have been postponed to the second half of 2026 due to procurement procedures,

the need for required approvals, and the workload of research partners. Regarding ethics compass, cooperation has been initiated between ESWA's Ethics Council, the University of Tartu Centre for Ethics,

and other partners with the aim of creating a practical tool to support ethical decision-making by social sector professionals. The signing of the agreement has been delayed due to ongoing

negotiations regarding the ownership of intellectual property rights. The Ministry of Social Affairs and SSSC have provided their respective positions in accordance with the terms of the Cooperation

Agreement. In parallel, preparations for the study have been launched in cooperation with the Association of Estonian Cities and Municipalities and research partners. The Ministry of Social Affairs has

provided feedback on the terms of reference to ensure that the study meets the deadline and provides adequate input for designing a workplace-based support system to be piloted, taking into account the

needs of practitioners. .

Preparations have also begun for a workplace well-being hackathon to be held in November 2026, with the objective of developing and piloting solutions that support the well-being of social sector

professionals. These activities lay the foundation for the development and future implementation of a support system that strengthens workplace well-being and professional confidence in the social sector.

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Programme Component coordination (MoER):

During the reporting period, the activities of the Swiss–Estonian Cooperation Programme continued to be implemented and further developed in line with the programme objectives. The activities carried out

contributed to strengthening the knowledge and competencies of professionals in the education sector, as well as parents, enhancing their capacity to operate effectively in multilingual and multicultural

learning environments, and supporting the educational integration of children from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The Component 3 team actively participated in regular meetings, including

online workshops with the Bern University of Applied Sciences, as well as meetings of the Support Measure Steering Committee and Task Force. These meetings enable the exchange of information and

experience and ensure coordinated action.

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

Programme Component 3 “Increasing multicultural competence in the education sector”

In addition to developing and delivering training programmes, SIB prepared a tender for a study to assess the quality of the in-service training landscape in the social sector in Estonia. The aim of the

study is to analyse the functioning and quality of the continuing professional education and training landscape in the social sector and to make recommendations for its further development. The contract is

planned to be signed during the third quarter of 2026.The procurement for the study assessing the quality of the continuing education landscape in the social sector reached the bid evaluation stage on 19

June. Five proposals were submitted, and the selection of the successful bidder is currently being carried out in cooperation with SSSC.The procurement process has taken significantly longer than

expected due to high workload.

The management and development of the online journal Social Work (Sotsiaaltöö) also continued and has been under the responsibility of the SIB since 2026. The journal forms an important part of

the professional development and workplace-based support system for social sector specialists by providing access to up-to-date knowledge, research- and practice-based approaches, and examples of

good practice. It supports knowledge sharing, cross-sectoral cooperation, and the development of the professional community, thereby contributing to the improvement of the quality of social services.

ESWA carried out 6 “Master Workshops” that were organised in Tartu (Supporting Young People in Managing Emotions), Tapa (Experiential Workshop on the AART Methodology Based on the Practice

of a Secure Residential Child Care Institution), Tallinn (Making Networks Visible – Using Sociometry and Psychodrama to Support Clients), Saaremaa (Supporting Families of Children with School

Attendance Difficulties), Kaagvere (Experiential Workshop on the AART Methodology Based on the Practice of a Secure Residential Child Care Institution), and Narva-Jõesuu. The workshops focused on

practices that support the well-being of children, young people, and families, while also promoting peer-to-peer learning among professionals. A total of 58 participants attended the workshops. The

workshops enhanced participants’ professional knowledge and created opportunities for experience sharing. According to participant feedback, the most valued aspects were practical examples, learning

from colleagues, and the opportunity to discuss challenging work situations in a safe environment. These activities contribute to professionals’ continuous development, confidence in their work, and overall

well-being.

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The participant profile demonstrates that the programme has been most successful in reaching teachers, support specialists, and school leaders, who constitute clearly defined and well-established target

groups within educational institutions. In contrast, participation by youth work professionals has remained limited, with only one participant completing training during the reporting period. This lower

participation does not reflect a lack of relevance of the training but is primarily attributable to the specific characteristics of the target group. Compared to the education sector, where information is

disseminated through well-established professional networks and training providers have long-standing cooperation with schools and kindergartens, the youth sector is organisationally more fragmented and

lacks comparable communication and cooperation mechanisms. As engaging youth work professionals represents a relatively new direction for the programme, reaching this target group will require the

establishment of additional partnerships and the further development of targeted communication and outreach activities.

The target for immediate outcome indicators OCIM 2.1, "Share of trained professionals who have acquired new knowledge and skills and are ready to work also with people from different cultural and

linguistic backgrounds," is 80%. Based on immediate participant feedback collected during the reporting period, this target has been exceeded. On average, 88.4% of participants completing the training

courses, development programmes, and micro-credential programmes indicated that they were prepared to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in their work with learners, parents, and colleagues from

diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. This result confirms that the continuing professional development provided under the programme effectively meets the needs of the target group and supports the

development of competencies required for working in multilingual and multicultural learning environments.

The target for outcome indicator OCIN 2.1, "Share of trained professionals using new skills and knowledge working also with people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds," is 70%. This indicator

is measured six months after completion of the training. By the end of the reporting period, insufficient time had elapsed to collect the necessary data; therefore, progress towards this indicator will be

assessed during subsequent reporting periods.

Overall, the results achieved during the reporting period demonstrate that Activity 1 is progressing towards its intended outcomes. The training courses have been successfully developed, the target for

output indicator OPI 2.8–2.11 has been exceeded, participants' readiness to apply the acquired knowledge surpasses the target for the immediate outcome indicator, and the volume of training activities

continues to increase steadily. The next phase of the programme will focus on expanding training provision, increasing participant numbers, and measuring the longer-term impact through outcome indicator

OCIN 2.1–2.2.

Main risks and challenges

During the reporting period, the implementation of Activity 1 faced several external and operational challenges, primarily affecting training enrolment and the timing of activities. The most significant

challenge was the large number of free professional development opportunities available to professionals, which increased competition for the attention of the target group and made it more difficult to

achieve full enrolment in several training cohorts. In addition, some activities coincided with a period during which educational institutions were heavily engaged in preparations for the transition to Estonian-

language education and the implementation of preparatory education, limiting the target group's availability to participate in training. As a result, participant numbers in some courses remained below

expectations. Nevertheless, this has not affected the quality of the activities or the achievement of the programme's substantive objectives. To improve accessibility, the programme has expanded the

provision of regional training opportunities and strengthened targeted communication and cooperation with educational institutions and local authorities.

Activity 1. In-service training for professionals in the education sector: During the reporting period, the implementation of Activity 1 continued with a focus on updating the knowledge and

skills of professionals in the education sector for working in multilingual and multicultural environments. Activities included the development of new continuing professional development (CPD) curricula, the

revision of existing curricula, and the delivery of professional development and capacity-building programmes based on these curricula. The programme has clearly progressed from the preparation phase

to the implementation phase, and the volume of training activities has increased significantly compared to the previous year.

The target for output indicator OPI 2.8, "Number of in service training modules developed," is 8 modules by 2028. During the reporting period, a total of 11 in-service training curricula were either newly

developed or substantially updated under the programme. These included preparatory education development programmes as well as training courses on culturally responsive and language-aware

teaching. Consequently, the target value for this output indicator has already been exceeded.

The target for output indicators OPI 2.12, "Number of professionals trained," is 4,000 graduates in the education sector by the end of 2028. During the reporting period, a total of 303 professionals completed

training courses, development programmes, and micro-credential programmes. Of these, 293 were women (96.7%) and 10 were men (3.3%). The largest participant group consisted of teachers (228

graduates; 75.2%), followed by support specialists (40; 13.2%) and school leaders (34; 11.2%). In addition, one youth work professional completed the training.

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Participant profile confirms that the activities successfully reached the intended target groups, including recent immigrants and parents with refugee backgrounds, thereby contributing to the programme

objective of improving access to educational information for families from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds and strengthening cooperation between parents and educational institutions.

The objective of Immediate Outcome OCIM(b) 1.1 is to assess the immediate impact of the parent-focused activities, including participants' satisfaction and their assessment of the usefulness of the

knowledge and skills acquired in supporting their children's educational pathways and participating more actively in Estonian society.

Based on immediate feedback, participants' average satisfaction reached 88.2% of the maximum possible score, exceeding the programme target of 75% by 13.2 percentage points. This result confirms

that the content, structure and methodology of the training programmes met the needs of the target group and contributed to achieving the intended output.

Participants particularly highlighted the practical orientation of the training, the relevance of its content, and the immediate applicability of the knowledge gained. Participants also appreciated the opportunity

to exchange experiences with other parents and to gain additional knowledge about child development, motivation, and creating learning-supportive environments.

The feedback indicates that the training programmes increased parents' awareness, confidence, and practical skills in supporting their children's educational pathways. This is particularly significant for

families from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, who may require additional information and guidance regarding the Estonian education system, school´s expectations, and effective cooperation

with educational institutions. The findings demonstrate that the activities contribute to the programme objective of strengthening the role of parents in supporting their children's education and increasing the

engagement of culturally and linguistically diverse families in the educational process.

The objective of Outcome OCIN 1.1 is to assess the longer-term impact of activities on parents' readiness to support their children's educational pathways and participate more actively in Estonian society.

The indicator is measured six months after participation, enabling an assessment of the sustainability of the training program’s impact. The six-month follow-up assessment presented in this reporting period

is based on feedback collected from participants in training programmes held in Narva, Kohtla-Järve and Sillamäe. The findings indicate that the impact of the training programmes has been sustained

beyond the completion of the activities. The satisfaction score of 84% significantly exceeds the programme target of 50%, confirming the longer-term impact of the activities.

These outcomes contribute to the programme objective of promoting the integration of families from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds, as active parental involvement in children's education

supports both successful adaptation to the education system and broader social inclusion of the family.

Programme Component coordination (MoI): In

2026, Component 4 commenced full-scale implementation. During the reporting period, activities were carried out in accordance with the 2026 Action Plan. The Component 4 team actively participated in

regular coordination meetings, including online workshops organized by the Bern University of Applied Sciences, as well as meetings of the Support Measure Steering Committee and the Task Force. In

addition, representatives of Component 4, together with colleagues from Component 1, took part in a study visit to Switzerland in April 2026. These meetings and joint activities provided valuable

opportunities to exchange knowledge and experiences, strengthen cooperation among project partners, and ensure effective coordination and alignment of the Support Measure implementation.

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

Programme Component 4 “Strengthening civil society through social innovation.” Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Activity 2. Informing, consulting and supporting parents, including parents from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds:

During the reporting period, systematic implementation and further development of parent-focused activities, that already launched in the second half of 2025, continued. Focus was on delivering training

programmes for parents and publishing digital learning materials (video lectures). During the reporting period, a new central online platform called “Õpime koos” (Learning Together) was developed for

parents, bringing together practical information materials, video lectures, and guidance resources in one place. It improves access to high-quality information and acts as a sustainable resource that will

remain available beyond the lifetime of the programme. To support the launch of the platform, preparations for systematic communication and outreach activities were initiated in cooperation with our

communications partner: a communication plan was developed, visual communication materials (posters and leaflets) were produced, and a targeted dissemination strategy was prepared in cooperation

with local authorities and educational institutions. Ten municipalities with greater cultural diversity were identified, where outreach activities will commence in August 2026.

Since May 2026, an expert with a background in educational psychology, is responsible for developing evidence-based learning and guidance materials for parents that strengthens the quality of

programme activities and helps ensure that all newly developed materials are based on current research and respond to the needs of the target group.

During the reporting period, Output OPI 1.11 was supported through the delivery of four training programmes that consisted of 12 seminars. In addition, 5 new educational video lectures were published,

providing parents with practical and flexible support to aid children's learning and development in multilingual and multicultural environments. Preparatory activities were also launched for the organisation of

4 large conferences in different cities of Estonia, two of them scheduled for the second half of 2026.

Immediate Outcome OCIM(b) 1.1 Four identical training programmes for parents were implemented in Kiviõli, Maardu, Rakvere and Tallinn, consisting of twelve face-to-face seminars. As the programmes

are identical in content and objectives, the results are presented in an aggregated overview.

A total of 77 parents participated in the training programmes, of whom 92% were women and 8% were men. Eighteen participants (approximately 23%) were recent immigrants. Five participants

(approximately 6.5%) had a refugee background unrelated to the war in Ukraine, while seven participants (approximately 9%) were refugees from Ukraine.

Russian was the most common native language among participants, representing 63 participants (approximately 82%). Five participants reported Estonian as their native language, six Ukrainian, and one

English.

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Building civil society competence, raising public awareness and disseminating information on social innovation:

A public procurement was carried out to implement hackathons and incubation programs, and a procurement contract was signed with Visionest Institute OÜ. The first hackathon called “Idea Day” was

successfully carried out on May 13. 42 ideas were submitted in the idea collection, 12 ideas and teams participated in the hackathon, and 10 ideas and teams reached the final presentations.

Among the people who participated in the hackathon, people with different language and cultural backgrounds made up 42%, the expectation was at least 25%. Preparations for the incubation program

are underway (starting in the second half of the year). https://kysk.ee/bowlingusaal-taitus-nutikate-ideedega/

As a result of the procurement, SA Estonian Business School was selected as the implementer of social innovation training programs. The training programs are aimed mainly at consultants from

NGOs and businesses and will start in the second half of the year. https://kysk.ee/ebs-koolitusprogramm/

A package of procurement documents was prepared for the provision of social innovation consultancy services and a tender was published with a deadline for submission of tenders on July 3.

Procurement documents were prepared for the creation of social innovation e-learning and a small tender was launched with a deadline for submission of tenders on August 31.

Nordic best practices for involving new immigrants with social innovation and entrepreneurship methods. Next phase of preparatory activities will begin in August 2026. The workshop will take place

in October 2026.

Preparatory activities have taken place within the framework of organizing a European study tour in November - communication with representatives of institutions in potential destination countries,

there after choosing Portugal as destination for the visit, mapping of the target group and a preparing a preliminary plan for the study tour.

Information on social innovation was regularly disseminated in various ways using Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, the website and the social innovation newsletter. 47 Estonian and 9 English news

items on social innovation were published on the KÜSK website, 8 newsletters and over 50 thematic posts on social media were published, and two major campaigns were launched. 4 podcast episodes

were released, 1 full-length broadcast of the conference was held, and thematic videos were published.

The procurement documents for the SI-themed TV show are being prepared, cooperation with the State Shared Service Centre procurement advisor has begun. The agreed action plan envisages

concluding the contract in autumn.

4 events on the theme of social innovation were organized: two virtual community innovation mornings with nearly 100 participants all together, a social innovators' day "Sprouting" with nearly 80

participants, NFSC summer seminar Suminar with over 90 participants, which was SI focussed this time, co-organized by the Estonian Youth Associations and also participated by young people.

Cooperation meetings were held with 4 organisations: the Government Office, EdTech Estonia, the Estonian Social Work Association and the Gambling Addiction Counselling Centre, as well as regular

cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Social Affaire, the Ministry of Interior, State Shared Service Centre. https://kysk.ee/sikk/uudised/

A social innovation study trip took place in Ida-Viru County in March, 140 people applied for the study trip, and a total of 32 people participated. Follow-up activities were held after the Ida-Viru

County study trip and feedback collection after three months began. https://kysk.ee/sioppereis2026/

The activities of creating a database for collecting best practices in social innovation and drafting a manual were continued. Comparison of SI best practice collection formats have been conducted,

partners consulted, questions and form has been developed. Tested in the Social Innovation Competence Centre network. For the creation of a draft handbook on social innovation input information has

been processed, as well as additional materials received from the Bern University of Applied Sciences.

Operational Progress Page 14

5,3

N/AEstimated cumulative physical progress (%)

In Estonia, social innovation, Competence Centre and CH-EE cooperation programme were being introduced at the "Sprouting" day and at the NFCS Seminar and to an expert from Singapore who

visited Estonia as part of the CIF exchange program. Internationally, at the study visits in Belgium, in Poland at the 11th European Congress of Local Governments and panel discussion, at the network

meeting in Latvia, in Spain at the European Union ESF+ COP SI study tour and panel discussion, also to the consortium created by the SI PLUS consortium of Latvia, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia and Malta,

and at a project study tour in Switzerland and meetings in Cyprus. https://kysk.ee/sikk/uudised/. All team members participated in several thematic events and seminars in Estonia and internationally. These

engagements supported the exchange of experiences and knowledge, the identification of speakers for events and activities, the establishment of connections with international experts, and steps toward

ensuring the sustainability of activities.

In addition, to support short- and long-term sustainability, the project manager contributed to the preparation national country plans regarding to the next ESF+ programming period, participated in

the Ministry of the Interior’s science, development, and innovation working group, the ESF+ social innovation mid-stage competence centres working group, and Global Government Council for Social

Innovation activities, and participated at OECD group interview.

Operational Progress Page 15

To be filled in by Switzerland (see SAP characteristics) To be filled in by Switzerland (see SAP characteristics)

No Programme Component Name Swiss Contribution

CHF Specific Objective Thematic Area

(in-country)

Geographic Focus Name Programme Component Operator Type of entity Sector 1 Sector 2 (SDC only) Sector 3 (SDC only)

PSP/PA maximum 40 characters in CHF according to Art. 2.2

Regulations

according to Art. 2.4

Regulations

Start End use title, not code use title, not code use title, not code

1 Management Costs 1 265 816,92 Migration / Public Safety Migration & Integration national coverage Ministry of Culture National administration 01.06.24 31.08.28 Democratic participation

Public sector policy

and administrative

management Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Principal Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Significant Not targeted

2 Programme Component 1 “Cultural and linguistic integration” 5 592 127,22 Migration / Public Safety Migration & Integration national coverage Ministry of Culture National administration 01.06.24 31.08.28 Democratic participation

Public sector policy

and administrative

management Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Principal Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Significant Not targeted

3 Programme Component 2 "Strengthening the social-and child protection services"5 385 678,58 Migra / Public Safety Migration & Integration national coverage Ministry of Social Affairs National administration 01.06.24 31.08.28 Democratic participation

Public sector policy

and administrative

management Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Principal Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Significant Not targeted

4 Programme Component 3 “Increasing multicultural competence in the education sector”5 358 753,18 Migration / Public Safety Migration & Integration national coverage Ministry of Education and Research National administration 01.06.24 31.08.28 Education Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Principal Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Significant Not targeted

5 Programme Component 4 “Strengthening civil society through social innovation.”997 624,10 Migrat o / Public Safety Migration & Integration national coverage Ministry of Interior National administration 01.06.24 31.08.28 Democratic participation

Public sector policy

and administrative

management Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Principal Not targeted Not targeted Not targeted Significant Not targeted

Programme Characteristics

Planned duration

To be filled in by Programme Operator

PM

Governance

PM

Disabilities

PM

Digitalisatio

n

PM Support

RIO

biodiversity

PM Support

RIO CC

Adaptations

PM Support

RIO CC

mitigation

PM Support

RIO CC

desertificati

on

PM Support

Social

Inlcusion

PM Gender

Programme Component or Project Ref.

No Contract Name

If applicable, planned

deadline for

submitting

documentation to

Swiss "non

objection"

Launch of

tender

planned

Tender notice

will be

submitted to

Swiss side

before

publication

English

translation of

tender

documents will

be made

available to

bidders

Actual

launch of

tender

(publication

of tender

notice)

Contract

signature

planned

Actual

contract

signature

Contract

completion

planned

Actual

contract

completion

Contractor Comments

quarter / year quarter /

year yes/no yes/no date

quarter /

year date

quarter /

year date EUR CHF EUR CHF name EUR CHF

status/ appeals/ cancelling or repetion of tender (incl. reason)/ numbers of bidders and rejected bids/risks/

irregularities related to the tender/ difficulties with the the Contractor/ suspension of works etc.

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and

linguistic integration”

Development and implementation of digital

tools IV/2026 IV/2026 yes no I/2027 IV/2027 300 000 289 553

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and

linguistic integration”

Development and implementation of digital

tools I/2027 II/2027 yes no II/2027 I/2028 300 000 289 553

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and

linguistic integration”

Development and piloting a volunteer

programme I (E-learning course for volunteers -

base module) IV/2025 IV/2025 yes no 29/09/2025 IV/2025-I/2026 15.12.2025 III/2026 09.07.2026 80 000 77 214 63 085 60 888 AS BCS Koolitus 63 085

The e-course has been completed and accepted by the contracting authority. The contract has been successfully

concluded.

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and

linguistic integration”

Development and piloting a volunteer

programme II (E-learning course for volunteers

- complementary module) I/2027 II/2027 yes no III/2027 II/2028 75 000 72 388

Postponed compared to the plan presented in the previous Reimbursement Request, as we don't have enough

information yet to start preparing additional e-course. Mapping the needs of the new course takes place at the end

of the year - at the beginning of the new year

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and

linguistic integration”

Implementation of activities introducing

Estonian culture and customs space III/2025 III/2025 yes no 23.09.2025 IV/2025

The procurement was divided into four lots, resulting in four separate contracts, as described in the rows below.

The implementation of all contracts is currently ongoing.

18.11.2025 II/2027 157 200 151 726 190 948 184 298 Targa Eesti Instituut OÜ 30068,56 Lot 1 of procurement Implementation of activities introducing Estonian culture and customs space

18.11.2025 II/2027 235 800 227 588 219 450 211 808 ImmiSchool-Uusimmigrantide Koolituskeskus OÜ22583,76 Lot 2 of procurement Implementation of activities introducing Estonian culture and customs space

18.11.2025 II/2027 78 600 75 863 92 985 89 746 Targa Eesti Instituut OÜ 5757,77 Lot 3 of procurement Implementation of activities introducing Estonian culture and customs space

18.11.2025 II/2027 52 400 50 575 63 229 61 028 Targa Eesti Instituut OÜ 0 Lot 4 of procurement Implementation of activities introducing Estonian culture and customs space

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and

linguistic integration”

Development and providing activities to

introduce Estonian cultural space and increase

social connections II-III2026 III/2026 yes no IV/2026 I-II/2028 575 000 554 976

Programme Component 2

"Strengthening the social-and child

protection services"

Advertising new possibilities and positive

changes in social care- and child protection

studies and work environment 185 000 178 557

According to the Procurement Plan annexed to the Support Measure Agreement, it was foreseen that a

procurement procedure with an estimated value of 400 000 EUR would be carried out for advertising new

possibilities and positive changes in social care- and child protection studies and work environment.

However, following several thorough discussions, the approach has been revised as described below:

Initial brainstorming and preparations were made in 2025 and it was decided that the campaign will not be carried

out on such a large scale as it was originally planned. Instead of one large procurement and reputation

campaign, several smaller activities' approach is chosen that support improving the reputation of the field

based on different needs. A set of these activities will be carried out by Social Insurance Board. Activities

will be implemented during 2027-2028.

Three main directions to improve the image of the social sector:

-Increasing visibility and positive awareness of the sector

Promoting social work through targeted communication, positive stories, media cooperation, and highlighting the

impact of social services and project outputs.

-Strengthening service quality and trust in the sector

Supporting municipalities with practical guidelines, quality standards, tools, and knowledge-sharing to ensure more

consistent and high-quality social services.

-Developing a data-driven and transparent sector

Using data and indicators to demonstrate the impact, quality, and development of social services and to strengthen

public trust in the sector.

Supporting Social Inclusion / Reimbursement Request No. 3

Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme

Procurement Plan

Actual costs based on

signed contractsInitially estimated costs Expenditures incurred based

on signed contracts

To be filled in by Programme Operator

Referenz-Nummer / Reference Number REF-1006-66300

Projektnummer / Support Measure Identification Code 7F-10699.01

Kreditorennummer / Creditor Number 1000643543

Name des Kreditors / Creditor's name Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Estonia

Strasse / Street Suur-Ameerika 1

PLZ, Ort / Zip code and place 10122 Tallinn

Währung / Currency: CHF

Betrag / Reimbursement requested from Switzerland 1 012 656,11

Aufteilung nach Programmkomponente / Breakdown by programme

component

Management Costs 107 606,80

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and linguistic integration” 366 665,63

Programme Component 2 "Strengthening the social-and child

protection services" 214 349,99

Programme Component 3 “Increasing multicultural competence in

the education sector” 283 875,63

Programme Component 4 “Strengthening civil society through social

innovation.” 40 158,06

Kontoinhaber / bank account holder (if different from creditor name) Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Estonia

IBAN-Nr.: EE891010220034796011

SWIFT: EEUHEE2X

Reference: 2550081357

Bankbezeichnung / Name and address of the bank SEB, Tornimäe 2, 15010 Tallinn, Estonia

Buchungsinformationen / Booking information

Zahladresse / Account details

Deckblatt Rechnung E-Billing / Coversheet Invoice E-Billing

Lõkke 4 / 10122 Tallinn / 663 8200 / [email protected] / www.rtk.ee / Registrikood 70007340

Benedikt Hürzeler

Embassy of Switzerland to Latvia, Lithuania

and Estonia

[email protected] Ours 24.09.2026 no 11.1-5/26/1994-1

Smilšu iela 8 Riga

LATVIA

Reimbursement Request No 3, Support

Measure "Supporting Social Inclusion"

Dear Mr Hürzeler,

Hereby the Paying Authority of the Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme submits the

Reimbursement Request No 3 of the Ministry of Culture for the Support Measure "Supporting

Social Inclusion" covering the period from 01 January 2026 to 30 June 2026.

Yours sincerely,

(signed digitally)

Karin Viikmaa

Head of the Grants Payment Department

Annex:

1. Reimbursement Request RR 3 SSIP 7F-10699.01

Helena Musthallik +372 56466003

[email protected]