ESF-SI-2024-UA-01-0030 

The project U-PLAYS supports integration of Ukrainian youth through sports, employment training, and language learning. Aligned with the goals of ESF+ initiative, it addresses the societal impacts of Russia’s war against Ukraine by fostering social inclusion.  

The project aims to integrate 300 Ukrainian youth into Austrian, Latvian and Slovakian societies by enhancing their physical, linguistic, and professional skills. Key activities in each country include 50 sports sessions to improve fitness and teamwork, 50 language classes in German, Latvian, or Slovak to strengthen language proficiency, and 50 employment workshops to equip participants with job readiness skills. Implemented by professional trainers and language instructors, the project activities will be conducted simultaneously in Austria, Latvia, and Slovakia. Expected outcomes include improved physical fitness, better language skills, and increased employment prospects for participants.  

U-PLAYS adopts a user-centered approach, actively involving participants in the planning and implementation of activities to ensure their needs are met. The project aims to achieve sustainable impact by creating a scalable model that can be transferred to other EU contexts. A comprehensive dissemination plan will share methodologies and successes through multiple networks, promoting best practices in social innovation and refugee integration.  

U-PLAYS addresses immediate needs while fostering long-term social inclusion and empowerment of Ukrainian youth, aligning with the objectives of the call. Building on the successful implementation of the project in a local context in Latvia, this initiative will now be scaled for the first time at a European level. By leveraging proven methodologies and outcomes, U-PLAYS aims to extend its impact beyond national borders, enhancing the integration of Ukrainian youth on a broader scale.

Funding: 665,909.00 Eur