Textile Testing Course Supporting Migrant Women’s Employability in Latvia and Estonia
The Textile Testing Course was organised within the CeMeWE project, funded by the Central Baltic Programme, which aims to improve the employability of immigrant women in the Central Baltic region. The initiative addresses the structural and practical barriers that migrant women often face when entering the labour market. This course was developed for one of the project’s three target groups, focusing on women who seek retraining and new professional skills. It was particularly relevant for migrant women from Latvia and Estonia who either wish to gain a new qualification or are unable to use their previous education or professional experience in their current country of residence. By offering structured, practice-oriented learning, the course contributed to strengthening participants’ competitiveness and confidence in pursuing new career pathways.
The one-day course took place on 2 February 2026 at Riga Technical University and combined theoretical knowledge with intensive hands-on laboratory work. It was led by Inga Dāboliņa, Head and Senior Researcher of the RTU Protective Equipment Laboratory (PPELab), the largest accredited textile testing laboratory in the Baltics, operating in accordance with European Union standards. Under her guidance, participants were introduced step by step to textile testing principles, laboratory procedures, and the operation of professional equipment. The structured programme ensured a supportive and engaging learning environment, encouraging discussion, analytical thinking, and active participation throughout the day. The course was hosted at the RTU Science and Innovation Centre, providing participants with direct exposure to a modern academic and research setting.
Throughout the day, participants gained a structured introduction to textile testing and laboratory practices, including material performance evaluation, safety requirements, and quality assessment methods. The programme balanced theoretical explanations with practical experimentation, allowing participants to test textile properties such as elasticity and flammability using professional equipment. Case studies and guided discussions helped participants interpret results and understand real-life industry applications. Pre- and post-course assessments supported reflection on learning progress and reinforced newly acquired knowledge. Upon successful completion, participants received a Certificate of Completion and were awarded 1 ECTS credit, providing formally recognised learning outcomes.
Feedback from participants highlighted the value of combining applied technical training with clear academic guidance. Many expressed increased interest in the textile and materials field and noted a broader understanding of career and study opportunities available in Latvia and Estonia. The course also introduced further education possibilities, including the “Clothing and Textile Technology” Bachelor’s programme at Riga Technical University, encouraging participants to consider continued professional development. By creating accessible, high-quality retraining opportunities in a cross-border context, the CeMeWE project continues to support migrant women in building new qualifications and strengthening their long-term integration into the labour market.
This activity was supported as part of Project – Central Baltic Mentoring for Migrant Women seeking Employment – CeMeWE CB0100070, as Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021-2027 project co-funded by the European Union.
