Kiri

RR 1 SSIP 7F-10699.01.pdf

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 9/15/2025

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: Kristiina Alliksaar Position:

C. Available amount from the Swiss Contribution

29,832.17

18,600,000.00 100.00%

0.00

Suur-Karja 23,15076 Tallinn, Estonia

0.00%

0.91%

100.00%

169,049.02

18,600,000.00

18,430,950.98 99.09%

Executing Agency: Programme Operator

D. Certification and approval of Reimbursement Request

Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme

Reimbursement Request No. 1

Supporting Social Inclusion

6/30/2025

7F-10699.01Šveits.1.01

Ministry of Culture

6/1/2024

Supporting Social Inclusion

A. Basic information

6/1/2024 8/31/2028

Estonia

1

180,917.19

0.00

18,600,000.00

1.070 Date of exchange rate

B. Amount requested by the Paying Authority

22,671,890.11

169,049.02

0.00

212,843.74

on total expenditures

198,881.19

31,926.55

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

The Executing Agency hereby certifies

template v13.7.23 Reimbursement Request Page 1

Place, date and signature

digitally signed

template v13.7.23 Reimbursement Request Page 2

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

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

National Coordination Unit

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

template v13.7.23 Reimbursement Request Page 3

Instructions

6/1/2024 6/30/2025

EUR % 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%

% 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 Management Costs 1,542,928.07 85.00% 1,265,816.92 94,173.24 87,995.48 13,199.32 74,796.16 94,173.24 6.10% 1,448,754.83 87,995.48 74,796.16 5.91% 1,191,020.76 0.00 178,847.00 300,000.00

1.1 Personnel 692,732.00 60,048.06 60,048.06 8.67% 632,683.94

1.2 Meetings, seminars and visits 140,000.00 3,253.87 3,253.87 2.32% 136,746.13

1.3 Swiss experts and partners 543,776.11 0.00 0.00 0.00% 543,776.11

1.4 Information and communication 154,000.01 30,790.79 30,790.79 19.99% 123,209.22

1.5 Reserve costs 12,419.95 80.52 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 0.00 0.00% 6,816,349.13 0.00 0.00 0.00% 5,592,127.22 0.00 1,461,184.00 2,524,697.00

2.1 Programme Component coordinator MoC 148,389.03 . 0.00 0.00 0.00% 148,389.03

2.2 Overheads 445,929.38 0.00 0.00 0.00% 445,929.38

2.3 Activity 1: Preparation of digital transformation in the field

of integration (incl personnel costs) 1,446,121.03 0.00 0.00 0.00% 1,446,121.03

2.4 Activity 2: Inclusion of volunteers in the integration

activities (incl personnel costs) 910,648.12 0.00 0.00 0.00% 910,648.12

2.5 Activity 3: Provision of counselling services including in

language learning (incl personnel costs) 870,453.10 0.00 0.00 0.00% 870,453.10

2.6 Activity 4: Activities introducing the Estonian cultural space

(incl personnel costs) 2,023,214.40 0.00 0.00 0.00% 2,023,214.40

2.7 Activity 5: Provision of media literacy training (incl

personnel costs) 971,594.07 0.00 0.00 0.00% 971,594.07

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 22,798.42 0.35% 6,541,906.58 21,302.84 18,107.42 0.34% 5,367,571.16 0.00 1,565,421.00 2,262,110.00

3.1 Programme Component coordinator in MoSA 109,012.50 21,306.94 21,306.94 19.55% 87,705.56

3.2 Activity 1:curricula and professional qualification

modification (incl personnel costs) 2,622,140.19 0.00 0.00 0.00% 2,622,140.19

3.3 Activity 2: training and counselling system (incl personnel

costs) 3,404,085.63 0.00 0.00 0.00% 3,404,085.63

3.4 Overheads 429,466.68 1,491.48 1,491.48 0.35% 427,975.20

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% 6,531,885.12 0.00 0.00 0.00% 5,358,753.18 0.00 564,183.00 861,394.00

4.1 Programme Component coordinator in MoER 102,600.00 0.00 0.00 0.00% 102,600.00

4.2 Overheads* 62,765.30 0.00 0.00 0.00% 62,765.30

4.3 Activity 1. In-service training for professionals in the

education sector (incl personnel costs) 5,572,472.72 0.00 0.00 0.00% 5,572,472.72

4,3,1 Activity 1 coordinator in the Education and Youth Board 152,617.50 0.00 0.00 0.00% 152,617.50

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 0.00% 641,429.60

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 95,872.08 7.88% 1,120,150.71 89,582.87 76,145.44 7.63% 921,478.66 0.00 383,620.00 328,132.00

5.1 Programme Component Coordinator in MoI 44,103.97 2,448.54 2,448.54 5.55% 41,655.43

5.2 Overheads* 79,552.89 6,271.98 6,271.98 7.88% 73,280.91

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 87,151.56 7.98% 1,005,214.37

TOTAL 22,671,890.11 85.00% 18,600,000.00 212,843.74 198,881.19 29,832.17 169,049.02 212,843.74 0.94% 22,459,046.37 198,881.19 169,049.02 0.91% 18,430,950.98 0.00 4,153,255.00 6,276,333.00

CHFEUR

PLANNING

Supporting Social Inclusion / Reimbursement Request No. 1

Financial Progress

BUDGET CUMULATIVE DATA REPORTING PERIOD 1:

Financial Progress Page 4

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.

There is a deviation between the expenditures planned for this reporting period in the SM proposal and the actual expenditures paid by the NCU. This difference arises because, under national procedures, expenditures can only be submitted to the NCU for verification and payment after the conditions for implementing the Programme

Component’s activities have been approved—either through a ministerial order or an agreement signed with the implementer. The conditions for all Programme Components are now officially approved, thus the payment of incurred expenditures can start.

Another reason for the discrepancy is that advance payments made by the PO to the Swiss Partner cannot be declared to the NCU until they have been incurred in the accounting sense.

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) There was one budgetary modification during the reporting period in Component 1. An amount of 56 811 EUR was reallocated from budget item 2.1 "Programme Component coordinator MoC" to budget item 2.7 "Activity 5: Provision of media literacy training (incl personnel costs)". As the reallocation between budget items within the same

component was less than 20% of the initial budget of the Programme Component and below 100 000 CHF, and as it does not contradict with the agreed outputs and outcomes of the Programme nor change its duration, the modification was approved by the Programme Operator. This is in acordance with Article 6 of the Support Measure

Agreement art. 6 and Article 4.12 paragraph 4.a of the Regulations.

2) The first steering committee meeting was held on 16 October 2024. The meeting decided on the minimum set of basic characteristics to be collected and the disaggregation to be done in indicators (for further information, please refer to the protocol).

3) The logframe was changed by Steering Committee via written procedure in April 2025. Some of the existing indicators were linked to the core indicators, and the wording of some indicators was clarified and unified to ensure a common understanding (for further information, please refer to the protocol).

4) Some minor changes that have no budgetary effect and do not contradict the agreed outputs and outcomes of the Programme, nor change its duration, were agreed by the Programme Operator during the approval process of the conditions for implementing the activities. For example, in Component 2 it was concluded that forming a

partnership with the National Institute for Health Development and the Union of Child Welfare may not be the most feasible option at this time.

5) Please note that the title of budget item 4.4 has been aligned with the wording used in the Support Measure Proposal. Previously, there was a contradiction between the title mentioned in the budget table and the one mentioned in the main text of the Support Measure Proposal. In the budget table it was titled "Informing, counselling and

supporting parents with a different linguistic and cultural backgrounds". However the correct is "Informing, consulting and supporting parents, including parents from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds".

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.

Financial Progress Page 5

No

1.1

1.2

1.3

1.4

1.5

N/A

No

2.1

Swiss-Estonian Cooperation Programme

Supporting Social Inclusion / Reimbursement Request No. 1

Operational Progress

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

Personnel:

From the end of April 2024, the programme coordinator is in place at the Ministry of Culture. The coordinator manages the programme,

carrying out necessary administrative activities, contributing to the elaboration of conditions for implementing the activities of the

componets, 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 Financial Adviser.

The NCU controls expenditures paid from the support measure.

The Support Measure Implementation Agreement between the NCU and PO was signed on 19 November 2024.

Meetings, seminars and visits:

Steering Committee was established on 10 October 2024. The first SC meeting took place on 16 October 2024 in Narva, at the main

office of the Integration Foundation. The second SC meeting was held on 17 February 2025 in Viljandi, at the office of National

Foundation of Civil Society. A written procedure was conducted in April 2025 to approve changes to the logframe (some of the existing

indicators were linked to the core indicators, and the wording of some indicators was clarified and unified to ensure a common

understanding).

The Task Force was established on 27 November 2024. During the reporting period, two meetings were held and a number of written

procedures were carried out.

There have also been a number of other meetings between the relevant parties in connection with the programme.

Swiss experts and partners:

The Partnership Agreement between the Programme Operator, the Ministry of Culture, and Bern University of Applied Sciences was

signed on 24 September 2024. The agreement, valued at EUR 399,980.00, aims to enhance cooperation and bilateral relations

between partners, Programme Component Operators and implementers through workshops, study trips, and other joint activities.

In 2024, kick-off meetings for joint planning and development took place in all components of the support measure. As a result, a

comprehensive action plan for 2025 was developed. In 2025 more than 12 online workshops were held across three components,

each tailored to specific theme connected to the goals of the support measure. In the frames of Component 2, a study trip of Estonian

experts to Switzerland was organised by Bern University of Applied Sciences in May 2025. The study visit focused on presenting the

social work system of the Canton of Bern. The involvement of experts from various levels and institutions allowed participants to gain a

comprehensive understanding of the system from different perspectives, and validate the chosen approach.

An expert from the Bern University of Applied Sciences will be participating in the Media Literacy Conference in Rakvere on 23 October

2025.

Reserve costs:

The reserve costs were used to edit the Partnership Agreement.

Management Costs

Information and communication:

The support measure opening event “Cohesive Estonian society – how do we create it together?” took place on 17 October 2024 in the

Narva Town Hall. There were 75 participants from different organisations (ministries, academia, foundations and associations, local

governments, etc.). At the opening event, the challenges and opportunities in the field of integration were discussed, experiences from

Estonia and Switzerland were presented, and inspiring stories were shared.

Press releases to key media and social media posts about the event were issued.

The article introducing the support measure was published on the blog of the Ministry of Culture called "Kuva"

(https://kul.ee/uudised/sveitsi-eesti-koostooprogramm-koos-sidusama-uhiskonna-poole). The blog is publicly available on the Ministry's

website, and the article was also sent to the press list and blog subscribers.

The PO participated together with the NCU in the Europe Day celebration in a tent at Vabaduse Väljak, promoting the Cooperation

Programme to the general public and drawing their attention to the issues it addresses.

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

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and linguistic integration”

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Programme Component coordination (MoC):

During the reporting period, the main focus was on organisational matters, e.g. recruiting personnel, elaborating and enforcing the

conditions for implementing the activities of the component, and drawing up a detailed action plan and budget for 2024–2025. The

conditions for the implementation of the activities were enforced on 15 May 2025. A partnership agreement with the National Library

was signed on 30 May 2025.

The team actively participated in regular meetings, including online workshops with the Bern University of Applied Sciences and

support measure Steering Committee and Task Force meetings. These meetings enabled the exchange of information and

experiences and ensured coordinated action.

Operational Progress Page 6

2.3

2.4

2.5

2.6

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

2024 was primarly focused on organisational matters, e.g. recruitment of part-time project manager, preparation of action plan etc.

The studies were reviewed and analyses were conducted to map key areas outlining the challenges faced by new immigrants in

Estonia.

In 2025, the primary focus has been on preparing the first procurement procedure. The objective of the procurement is to analyze

existing systems and environments in order to gain an overview of how current services and solutions support integration into Estonian

society, as well as to identify necessary changes for improving this support. The procurement was published at the end of June and

can be found in Public Procurement Register. The deadline for submitting the procurement documents is 11 August. The

implementation period of the work is six months from the signing of the contract. As a result of the procurement, necessary information

will be provided on the possibilities of connecting different digital environments. Based on these results, the next steps will be initiated.

Activity 2: Inclusion of volunteers in the integration activities:

2024 was primarly focused on organisational matters, e.g. recruitment of project manager, who joined the team in the last quarter of

2024. Mapping of the current situation was conducted and key partners in different organizations were identified. The focus was on

setting clear objectives and priorities. Several meetings were held to initiate co-operation and establish a common understanding.

In the first quarter of 2025, a webinar introducing the experience of volunteer engagement was prepared and carried out in cooperation

with the Bern University of Applied Sciences, involving both foundation employees and external partners. A partner to conduct a study

on volunteer engagement practices in the field of integration was found. The deadline for the study is November 2025.

To gather information about previous experiences, meetings with colleagues and other organizations who have engaged volunteers

were held in June 2025. Workshops on the topic of volunteer engagement for various target groups (including volunteers) are planned

for August and September 2025. The study, meetings and planned workshops will provide input into the creation of a volunteer

engagement system. Volunteers recently connected with INSA have also been mapped.

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

In 2024, the focus was on organizational matters, e.g. recruitment on personnel. All the staff started their work from January 2025.

In 2025, the focus was on onboarding the personnel (Development Manager for Advisory Services, Independent Language Learning

Counselor, Peer Support Counselor), as well as setting annual goals and getting to know the field of counselling services in detail. The

sub-activity has focused on the development of counseling services, starting with a mapping and research phase. The effectiveness of

existing services and systems has been analyzed, identifying both strengths and areas for improvement. Preparations have also been

made for a target group research to be conducted in the second half of the year, aimed at more precisely identifying user needs and

expectations.

Activity 4: Activities introducing the Estonian cultural space:

In 2024, the focus was on organizational matters, e.g. recruitment of project manager and preparation of detailed action plan. Last

quarter of 2024, the project manager for this activity joined Integration Foundation.

Meetings with different stakeholders have been held to foster cooperation, build partnerships, and map the needs of the target group.

The main focus was on analysing previous activities related to introducing the Estonian cultural space, collecting relevant experiences,

and getting acquainted with relevant research data to ensure that the activities effectively reach and address the actual needs of the

target group.

Contacts have been established with the Estonian Association of Cities and Rural Municipalities to improve collaboration with

municipalities and reach the target group more effectively.

Also a seminar entitled "Digital Tools for Integration in Multicultural Contexts" was organised in collaboration with Bern University in

February 2025. Series of

workshops for designing digital tools are under preparation and will be held in August and September. Aim is to gain experience and

knowledge of Estonian experts from different organisations, including ministries, local municipalities, NGOs etc.

During the reporting period, the project manager was replaced. Recruitment of the new project manager took place in second quarter

of 2025. New project manager starts on July 14th.

During the planning of activities aimed at establishing a volunteer engagement system, it became clear that the process should be

divided into several stages. Preparation for the procurement of the first (basic) e-training module began in June. The next module will

focus on providing more in-depth and comprehensive training for volunteers and their leaders and this procurement will be prepared in

the second half of 2026. Due to the phased approach, the cost of this procurement (as indicated in the procurement plan) is

significantly lower.

Additionally, a procurement was prepared and published to find a partner for INSA to develop a module for volunteers within the

foundation’s self-service portal. The deadline for submitting proposals is 8 August 2025, and procurement documents are available in

the Public Procurement Register.

During the reporting period, the project manager was replaced. The recruitment process took place in the second quarter of 2025, and

the new project manager started in May 2025.

The independent language learning counselor and peer support counselor have been developing methodology, piloting and testing

new service concepts to improve support for the target group. A website analysis was conducted to identify areas for improvement and

update the site to make it more user-friendly and accessible. Existing counselling services have been analysed to gain a better

understanding of the challenges faced by both users and counselors, and to provide input and define the scope for a more in-depth

study, which will be commissioned through a procurement process in the second half of the year.

In addition, individual and group counseling sessions have been planned to provide better support for target users.

Also in the second quarter of 2025, a webinar titled “Peer-to-Peer Language Learning: Insights from Swiss Experts” was held in

cooperation with the Bern University of Applied Sciences.

Operational Progress Page 7

2.6

2.7

N/A

No

3.1

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

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Programme Component coordination (MoSA):

In 2024, the focus was on personnel recruitment. In October, the project managers from the Department of Social Welfare and the

Department of Children and Families joined the programme. Regular meetings were held to establish cooperation, build partnerships,

and plan activities.

The primary focus was on drafting the conditions for the grant support initiative “Modernization of the Education and Qualifications of

Social Sector Specialists and the Development of Training and Support Systems.” A ministerial decree outlining the conditions and

procedures for implementing this programme component was signed and approved by the Minister of Social Affairs on 24 March 2025.

It was concluded that forming a partnership with the National Institute for Health Development and the Union of Child Welfare may not

be the most feasible option at this time. Instead, to create a complementary education and training system for child protection and

social sector workers - covering specialist training as well as support and counselling services - the Ministry of Social Affairs (MoSA)

partnered with the Social Insurance Board and the Estonian Social Work Association. A cooperation agreement was signed between

Ministry of Social Affairs and Estonian Social Work Association.

For future updates to curricula, MoSA plans to involve universities and vocational schools as partners during the next phase of the

activities, starting in early 2026.

A project action plan for year 2025 - laying the foundations to create a comprehensive and sustainable system for social field training

and support for specialists in the field - was compiled and approved by the Minister of Social Affairs on 9 May 2025. The visibility of the

project activities was increased by creating a project website under the Ministry of Social Affairs (please see: https://www.sm.ee/asutus-

ja-kontakt/valisrahastus/sveitsi-eesti-koostooprogramm).

Meetings were also held with Bern University of Applied Sciences and a study trip to Switzerland carried out in May 2025 in order to

support component activities.

As of May 2025, the goals of the project were incorporated into the coalition agreement of the government.

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

Awareness-raising materials (bookmarks, posters, crossword puzzles, bingo games) were produced to support both formal and

informal learning, and were distributed at major public events like the Open Doors Day of the Estonian Parliament and Europe Day in

Narva, reaching thousands of participants, including many Russian-speaking adults. A podcast episode in Russian on the topic of

disinformation in the EU was recorded and published.

Networking activities, personalised outreach and communication through social media and newsletters helped maintain strong

engagement with libraries and experts. Project activities also gained visibility through participation in international conferences and the

Museum Night programme, where the media-savvy city walk format attracted interest. Overall, the project strengthened cooperation

with libraries and contributed to enhancing critical thinking in diverse communities.

The ordering of informational material introducing Estonian culture and customs is in progress. The material, in the form of a notebook

containing information about Estonian culture and customs, will be ready in October 2025.

The first procurement to find cooperation partners to organise activities introducing the Estonian cultural and customs space has been

prepared and published in the Public Procurement Register (these procurement documents have passed the Swiss non-objection

review).

A film programme introducing Estonian culture has been prepared and will take place in the eastern part of Estonia from August to

December 2025.

Online seminar with University of Bern took place on 13th of June 2025, involving both foundations` employees and external experts.

In addition, an online seminar in cooperation with the Bern University of Applied Sciences took place on 13 June 2025, involving both

foundation staff and external experts.

Activity 5: Provision of media literacy training:

In 2024 the National Library of Estonia began preparing for the project by putting a team together, mapping media literacy experts

outside the library, researching the needs of the target audience and Estonian libraries. Approaches from the service design field were

used to learn about the behaviour patterns of the target audience and in-depth interviews were conducted with several media literacy

and adult education experts, as well as community leaders. The team of The National Library of Estonia organised a workshop with

Estonian libraries' managers and additionally met with libraries and their visitors in the Harju ja Ida-Viru region.

Visual language for the project has been developed.

In the first half of 2025, the MeediaRadar project focused on developing training programme and awareness-raising activities in

cooperation with media literacy experts. A bilingual (EST/RUS) learning material "How to Navigate in an Abundance of Information"

was published, accompanied by a training programme tailored to the needs of libraries and communities. Four training sessions on

media and digital literacy were held across Estonia, and feedback confirmed their practical value and relevance, especially in topics

such as fraud, AI, and media manipulation.

Operational Progress Page 8

3.2

3.3

N/A

No

4.1

Short description of activities undertaken in the reporting period

Programme Component coordination (MoER):

In 2024 the component team concentrated on the elaboration of the conditions and partnership agreements for the implementation of

activities, as well as on the elaboration of a detailed action plan and budget for 2025. In collaboration with partner universities

(University of Tartu and Tallinn University), the formulation of principles arising from the programme's theme has been undertaken:

culturally responsive teaching (CRT) and language-aware subject instruction. The process of preparing the partnership agreement and

its annexes between Estonian Education and Youth Board and the two partner universities is underway. A ministerial decree outlining

the conditions and procedures for implementing this programme component is in its final stages and will be enforced at the beginning

of July.

During the reporting period, several cross-cutting activities were carried out that were essential for the smooth implementation of the

component and the achievement of its objectives: a core concept for the component was developed, along with a detailed action plan

aimed at informing and supporting parents, including those from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

The team actively participated in regular meetings involving all parties of the Swiss–Estonian Cooperation Programme (the National

Coordination Unit, Programme Operator, Component Operators, and Implementers), including thematic meetings with the Bern

University of Applied Sciences. These meetings enabled the exchange of information and experiences and ensured coordinated

action.

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

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

Necessary administrative activities were carried out, including involvement in the preparation of contractual documentation, drafting of

detailed action plans and budgets, and regular reporting. Internal processes and systems needed for the implementation of sub-

activities were also established.

Programme communication activities were planned and implemented. The team also participated in joint communication planning

meetings with all programme partners. Education and Youth Board´s communication channels, including its website, were updated to

publish project-related information.

Component team members participated in a training session organised by the University of Tartu Centre for Multilingualism, titled “How

to Communicate with the Public About Multilingualism?”. The training introduced science-based approaches for presenting

multilingualism-related topics and research results to the public, as well as for debunking common myths. More information about the

training is available on the website of the University of Tartu Centre for Multilingualism.

Activity 1: curricula and professional qualification modification:

Several meetings were held with different departments and leadership of the ministry, as well as other ministries (Education and

Research, Culture) whose activities are linked to the project, as well as organizations under their management (Youth Board, The

Association of Estonian Cities and Municipalities (AECM), Integration Foundation (INSA), The Estonian Unemployment Insurance

Fund), employers, educational institutions that teach in the field, and professional associations in the field. These meetings were

focused on shaping the project direction, mapping the current landscape, and establishing contacts and activities that support the

cooperation programme. These engagements helped to build a better understanding of the conditions and enabled planning based on

identified needs. Additionally, meetings took place with organizations focused on migrant integration to assess the requirements for

developing a programme aimed at integrating migrants into the social sector workforce.

The Social Insurance Board will focus on mapping its resources and the landscape of complementary education while creating a

feedback system to improve the quality of training. ESTA will focus on improving qualification certification tests and organizing events

to integrate the project goals into society’s perception.

Trainings will be conducted based on the identified development needs, during which the feedback system will be tested.

The project team also undertook a study trip to Switzerland from 12 to 16 May 2025, which helped guide the project direction and

validate the chosen approach.

Within the Ministry of Social Affairs, mapping of qualifications, specialists, and training opportunities, as well as input for labor force

forecasting in the social care sectors, was conducted. Cooperation was established with the Estonian Qualifications Authority

(Kutsekoda) to create a social sector competency profile and corresponding job profiles. These will serve as a basis for educational

and training institutions to modernize their curricula and ensure the provision of high-quality services.The Ministry of Social Affairs and

the Estonian Qualifications Authority prepared the terms of reference for Estonian Social Work Association to establish a working

group for creating the social sector framework and job profiles. Working group contributed to the development of a vocational

secondary education curriculum that would provide general competencies with specializing in the field of social care and help attract

young people to the social sector.

A study trip to Ireland has been planned for October 2025 to visit Tusla Child and Family Agency, which is the national government

agency responsible for improving well-being and outcomes for children, and supporting families. The main focus of study visit will be

overall understanding of the child protection system in Ireland, curricula development of the profession of child protection workers and

family mediators as well as support system of specialists.

Activity 2: training and counselling system:

The Social Insurance Board recruited a training specialist and a training expert to achieve the component goals of creating training and

support systems. They are scheduled to start in June and July 2025. The Estonian Social Work Association (ESTA) hired a project

manager who started in April 2025. Joint planning of 2025 activities and discussions on organizational matters were conducted with

Social Insurance Board and ESTA, to develop a systemic view in training and begin integrating the component outputs into society.

Operational Progress Page 9

4.3

4.4

N/A

No

Estimated cumulative physical progress (%)

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

As a result of this collaborative process, a systematic foundation has been established for the implementation of high-quality in-service

training programmes that support educational institutions in offering diverse and inclusive learning experiences. All parties are

committed to contributing to a shared learning process. Starting in autumn, Tallinn University and the University of Tartu will begin

offering in-service training to the target groups based on a total of 10 approved curricula.

Educational Video Lecture Series:

In February, collaboration began with experts from the Rajaleidja Centre to develop content and identify topics for a series of

educational video lectures targeted at parents. As part of the mapping process, language-based target groups were identified: parents

who understand Estonian, Russian, Ukrainian, and English. The aim of the video lectures was to support children’s educational and

socio-emotional development and to increase parental awareness.

Estonian-language video lectures covered the following themes:

• The child’s emotional well-being, including recognising stress and anxiety, supporting the development of self-esteem, and coping with

crises

• Education and learning, including inclusive education, supporting children at home and in school, learning motivation, and

communication with the school

• Trauma awareness and recognising concerns in a child’s development

Ukrainian-language video lectures focused on the child’s educational journey and adjustment to a new environment, including:

• Starting first grade and socialisation

• Integrational challenges from the perspective of both parents and schools

• The parent’s role in the child’s development at different stages

• Effective communication between school and home

All topics were selected based on the needs of the respective target groups, with the overarching goal of providing parents with

practical and reliable tools to better support their children.

Activity 1. In-service training for professionals in the education sector:

The Education and Youth Board has partnered up with the University of Tartu, Tallinn University, and the Ministry of Education and

Research to develop and implement in-service training programmes for teaching and non-teaching staff. The aim of the cooperation is

to ensure high-quality and target group specific implementation of in-service training, including micro-degree programmes across

Estonia, with a focus on supporting school leaders, teachers, and support specialists with the knowledge on how to work and teach in a

multicultural and -lingual learning environment.

Key focus areas have been defined within the cooperation framework: individualized learning, creation of culturally responsive and

language-aware learning environments, and the implementation of inclusive education principles. The volume and structure of the in-

service training programmes have also been defined. In the context of the Swiss–Estonian Cooperation Programme, the principles for

funding in-service training have been clarified, and the curricula submitted by the universities have been reviewed and refined in

accordance with the needs of the target groups.

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

To effectively plan activities aimed at supporting the integration of non-Estonian-speaking parents into Estonian society, a mapping of

activities and studies previously carried out in Estonia by various stakeholders was initiated. The studies reviewed provided valuable

insights into how to effectively assist non-Estonian-speaking parents in understanding and supporting their children's educational

needs.

Over several months, meetings were held with various stakeholders experienced in supporting non-Estonian-speaking parents. During

these meetings, the main barriers of integration and social inclusion in Estonia we analysed and possible answers to how facilitate this

process were explored. One of the primary concerns identified is the linguistic gap, where children have a better understanding of

Estonian language than their parents. Additionally, the increasing number of Ukrainian war refugees has introduced further social

tensions. The transition to Estonian-language education has further amplified the need for parental support. During the reporting

period, the development of the concept and format of a target group–based in-service training programme was initiated. The University

of Tartu Narva College was involved as a strategic partner in the preparation of the programme, contributing to the design of the

training seminar structure, trainer preparation, conducting the training programme and the development of a feedback questionnaire.

A Pilot In-Service Training Programme was then carried out called: "Supportive Parenting: 5 Steps on the Child’s Estonian-Language

Education Journey". The pilot training programme was implemented in Harju County in March 2025. The programme consisted of three

sessions: two in-person seminars and one online workshop. The training programme was aimed at parents whose native language is

not Estonian. The focus of the programme was on a variety of topics: supporting children in the Estonian-language education system;

the role of mother tongue and identity; the parent's role in the educational journey; and practical guidance for navigating change and

supporting the adaptation process of the child.

During the preparation phase, a focus group interview titled "Experiences and Needs of Non-Estonian-Speaking Parents in the Viimsi

Municipality Education System" was conducted. The purpose of the interview was to map the educational needs and challenges of the

target group, highlighting the importance of practical advice, information about the Estonian education system, and psychological

support. This helped to ensure that the content of the training programme met the actual expectations and needs of the target group.

Feedback survey results confirmed that this type of programmes are relevant and received high levels of participant satisfaction.

Operational Progress Page 10

5.1

5.3

N/AEstimated cumulative physical progress (%)

Programme Component coordination (MoI):

Preparing and providing input at the programme meetings focused on developing a detailed action plan, budget, programme

conditions, communication strategy and indicators. Providing ongoing assistance and supervision to the NFCS in all aspects of

preparing, initiating and implementing component 4, including liaising with stakeholders on the planned activities. Participating in the

initial negotiations and online workshops with the support measure partner Bern University of Applied Sciences and participating in

Steering Committee and Task Force meetings. The conditions for the implementation of the activities were enforced on 14 December

2024.

At the beginning of the year, a successful opening event for social innovation activities took place in Viljandi, where various program

partners and social innovation and entrepreneurship stakeholders participated. Virtual workshops on social innovation and hackathons

were held with the program partner Bern University of Applied Sciences to exchange experiences. The team's competencies were

mapped according to the recommended competency model for social innovation competence centers developed by the ESF, and all

team members participated in several thematic trainings and events in Estonia and internationally, including the European Social Fund

+ Social Innovation Community of Practice study tours in Lithuania, Norway, the Czech Republic and Portugal, adding to last year’s

participation in France, Belgium and Italy, to exchange experiences and knowledge, find speakers for events and activities, establish

connections with international experts, and take steps for the sustainability of activities.

In addition, for the short and long term sustainably, the project manager contributed to the creation of the Ministry of the Interior's

science, development and innovation strategy for the 2030 government area, the preparation of the next ESF+ period, the Ministry of

the Interior's science, development and innovation working group, the ESF+ SI mid-stage competence centers working group, and the

invitation to join the Global Government Council for Social Innovation. Project staff joined the SERIGO rural social innovation network

and contributed to the creation of the social innovation competence center strategy.

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

Within the activities of social innovation, additional personnel was recruited in last year, the elaboration and enforcement of the

conditions for the implementation of the activities of the component was being done, and the elaboration of a detailed action plan and

budget for current year was being prepared. Detailed processes of activities were prepared, including the mapping of relevant parties

to be involved in various ways, including parties to be included in market researches for procurements.

Continuing from the last year’s preparatory phase for the procurements, in the first half of this year, a procurement was carried out to

map the needs of consultants and advisors, as well as organizations that provide social impact products and services. As a result of

the procurement, Tallinn University prepared a mapping document to provide input to two procurements, which concern the provision

of consulting services to organizations and social enterprises in various fields of social innovation, and the development and

implementation of a training program for consultants in social innovation and social impact enterprises. Procurement document

packages were prepared for the organization of both procurements, as well as for the implementation of social hackathons and

incubation programs. Knowledge and contacts were gathered and meetings were organized to implement a Nordic best practice

workshop on the inclusion of new immigrants using social innovation and social entrepreneurship methods.

The creation of a concept and prototype for video clips on social innovation was started, and the first pilot podcast series was recorded

with the Good Deed Foundation based on the concept and analysis created. The preparation of a package of public procurement

documents for the TV series was started with. Information on social innovation was regularly disseminated in various ways using

Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, the website and the social innovation newsletter, and in addition, social innovation related information

was shared on employee’s personal profiles. The social innovation subpage on the NFCS website was further developed, including by

creating and adding a frequently asked questions section. An initial communication plan was drawn up, mapping target groups,

objectives, key messages, channels and formats, success metrics, posting instructions, languages, style and tone, and content format

and format.

The project manager introduced the project activities and the state of social innovation in Estonia at virtual and physical international

events, including a panel discussion in Vilnius at the European Union Social Innovation Competence Centres Mutual Learning Event

and a study tour conference in Portugal. In order to support the emergence and development of networks supporting social innovation,

an action plan with objectives, content and format was prepared, and the first meetings were held with the Integration Foundation, the

Refugee Centre and the Baltic Innovation Agency. In the direction of policy-making, the ecosystem actors were being mapped, an

action plan and a contact database were created. Preparations for organizing a study tour within Estonia for target groups began. In

order to collect and systematize best practices in social innovation and create a thematic manual, several Estonian and international

practices were analysed and corresponding preliminary concepts were created. The best practice description/recording form is

undergoing pilot testing, and we will start distributing the finished form and collecting best practices at the end of the third quarter.

Operational Progress Page 11

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 Migration / Publ 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 / Publ c 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 Migratio / 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

PM

Governanc

e

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 Characteristics

Planned duration

To be filled in by Programme Operator

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 IV/2025-I/2026 III/2026 80,000 77,214

Programme Component 1 “Cultural

and linguistic integration”

Development and piloting a volunteer

programme II (E-learning course for

volunteers - complementary module) III/2026 I/2027 yes no I/2027 IV/2027 75,000 72,388

Programme Component 1 “Cultural

and linguistic integration”

Implementation of activities introducing

Estonian culture and customs space III/2025 III/2025 yes no IV/2025 I/2027 524,000 505,752

These procurement documents have passed the Swiss non-objection review

already in spring 2025. Since the first procurement procedure was terminated

without a contract being awarded (no bids were received), the procurement

documents will be revised and new procurement launched. The changes will be

minor and more technical (time schedule, dates, minor changes in evaluation

criteria).

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 II/2026 II/2026 yes no IV/2026 I/2028 373,000 360,010

Programme Component 3 “Increasing

multicultural competence in the

education sector” No procurements of this amount are planned

Programme Component 4

“Strengthening civil society through

social innovation” No procurements of this amount are planned

Supporting Social Inclusion / Reimbursement Request No. 1

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

In the updated procurement plan submitted with the Annual Report 2024, three

separate procurements were planned, with a total estimated cost of 800 000

EUR. Now that the project is well underway and we have more insight and clarity,

we have decided that the procurement of the development and implementation of

new digital tools should be carried out in two phases (two separate

procurements), with an estimated cost of 300 000 EUR (excluding VAT) for each

phase. However, we would like to note that this could still change based on the

analysis of existing digital systems and environments, that will be ready by spring

2026.

According to the procurement plan (Annex C of the SM Agreement), the

estimated cost of the procurement “Development and piloting a volunteer

programme” is 220 000 EUR. Now that the project is well underway and we have

more insight and clarity, we have decided that it would be more feasible to

implement this in phases and divide this procurement into several separate

procurements with estimated costs of 80 000 EUR and 75 000 EUR.

At the time of drafting the Support Measure proposal and procurement plan, the

detailed content and implementation methods of the activities were not yet

defined. Therefore, the procurement was initially titled “Development and piloting

a volunteer programme”. At the current stage, however, it has been decided that

developing the programme internally—by the implementer, the Integration

Foundation (INSA)—is more feasible than outsourcing the entire process through

procurement.

The programme will now be developed in phases and outsourcing the e-learning

cources is part of this phases. To avoid any misunderstanding, the title of the

procurements has been updated to reflect the actual content.

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 169,049.02

Aufteilung nach Programmkomponente / Breakdown by programme

component

Management Costs 74,796.16

Programme Component 1 “Cultural and linguistic integration” 0.00

Programme Component 2 "Strengthening the social-and child

protection services" 18,107.42

Programme Component 3 “Increasing multicultural competence in

the education sector” 0.00

Programme Component 4 “Strengthening civil society through social

innovation.” 76,145.44

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

RR 1 SSIP 7F-10699.01.xlsx

Toetusmeetme Sotsiaalse kaasatuse toetamine HT nr 1.msg

From: Helena Musthallik - RTK <[email protected]>
Sent: Mon, 29 Sep 2025 13:32:10 +0000
To: Olga Gnezdovski <[email protected]>
Subject: Toetusmeetme "Sotsiaalse kaasatuse toetamine" HT nr 1

Tere, Olga!

Saadan sulle toetusmeetme „Sotsiaalse kaasatuse toetamine“ lõpliku hüvitistaotluse nr 1 excelis ja pdf-is.

Tervitustega

Helena

Helena Musthallik
Programmi ekspert
Riigi Tugiteenuste Keskus

Telefon: +372 56466003
www.rtk.ee
[email protected]