In Croatia, 34 educational institutions from 22 cities have been equipped with assistive technology to help children with developmental disabilities. This includes hardware and software aids such as computers, mobile phones, electronic devices, and non-technological solutions for improving functional abilities and increasing the quality of life for these children. The ATTEND project, implemented by CARNET, has achieved this by providing training to directors and employees of these institutions to effectively use the new equipment in working with children.
The project, which began on July 1, 2021, involved partners such as the Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation of the University of Zagreb (ERF), the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science of the University of Zagreb (FER), and the City of Reykjavik. In addition to education, assistive technology has applications in everyday life, and the project included workshops, webinars, and an e-course to train participants on the use of the equipment.
Over 5,686 pieces of assistive technology equipment have been delivered to the institutions, benefiting more than 1,750 students. Training and capacity building for employees were conducted by ERF and FER, resulting in the establishment of a new Laboratory for Assistive Technology (AT Lab) at the Faculty of Education and Rehabilitation. The institutions also collaborated in creating a catalog of assistive equipment purchased through the project.
The City of Reykjavik provided training and examples of good practice to Croatian directors and employees, familiarizing them with institutional frameworks, financing models, and methods of professional assistance for parents. This project was co-financed by the European Economic Area and the state budget, with the aim of supporting the education of children with developmental disabilities.