ENHANCING INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION COMPETENCE OF ENGLISH TEACHERS FOR INCLUSIVEEDUCATION

This article examines the significance of teaching culture and intercultural communication in inclusive education and emphasizes the need for new teaching paradigms that equip educators with the skills to promote cultural and social integration in the classroom. Within this context there are revealed the pivotal pedagogical competences for teachers to support diverse learners and create inclusive environments. The article stresses the importance of empowering teachers to address cultural diversity in education through intercultural approach. This approach helps educators adapt teaching strategies to meet the unique needs of students, foster tolerance and encourage collaborative experiential learning. Such strategies enable teachers to navigate complex intercultural communication classroom dynamics and ensure that all students, regardless of their background, feel supported and engaged. There was conducted the English Language Program at the In- Service Teacher Training Department at State Pedagogical University “Ion Creanga”, in collaboration with Peace Corps Moldova, to prepare English language teachers to effectively integrate inclusive practices to value cultural diversity and intercultural communication. The program covered five key areas: technological, pedagogical, intercultural communication, social-emotional and research competences, while the training employed seminars, group activities, and practical application case studies to encourage educators to engage with diverse teaching perspectives. Additionally, mentoring and coaching sessions provided personalized intercultural communication opportunities for teachers. The research highlights the importance of continuous professional development in fostering intercultural communication awareness and supporting inclusive education ultimately ensuring that all students can thrive in diverse educational settings.