Empowering Youth Through Collaboration and Innovation
From November 19 to 25, 2024, the Czech Republic hosted a dynamic study visit as part of the Erasmus+ project Think Tank – Chance for Youth. This initiative brought together youth leaders and experts from Poland, Greece, and the Czech Republic to explore the potential of youth-led think tanks in addressing societal challenges.
A Week of Engagement and Learning
The event kicked off with participants settling into Česky Těšin. The first day set the tone with informal interactions, laying a foundation for the collaborative activities ahead.Throughout the week, participants were immersed in a rich program designed to foster understanding and skills necessary for think tank operations. Highlights included:
- Gamified Learning: Participants engaged in a treasure hunt game integrating QR codes, enhancing their understanding of think tank development through gamification.
- Technology in Education: A visit to Majakovskeho Elementary School introduced participants to Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) as tools for educational innovation.
- • EU Parliament Simulation: A full-day simulation in Brno offered hands-on experience in policymaking, negotiation, and debate, providing insight into real-world decision-making processes.
- • Role-Play and Strategic Planning: Participants collaboratively designed think tank project proposals, aligning strategies with practical scenarios.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the visit, participants gained:
- A thorough understanding of think tank functions, including strategic planning and project implementation.
- Skills in gamification, utilizing it as an innovative method to engage audiences.
- Experience in policy development and negotiation through immersive activities like the EU Parliament simulation.
- Exposure to advanced technologies, demonstrating their potential for youth empowerment initiatives.
Challenges and Reflections
While the visit was a resounding success, some challenges emerged. Time management and communication gaps occasionally disrupted the flow of sessions. However, these experiences offered valuable lessons for future events. Participants shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, particularly appreciating the interactive and collaborative nature of the program.
Celebrating Partnerships
This study visit would not have been possible without the invaluable support of partners, including Business Gate, Majakovskeho Z.S, Masaryk University, and PlanPolitik. Their contributions ensured the event’s relevance and impact.
Looking Ahead
As the project nears completion, the study visit stands as a testament to the power of youth collaboration and innovation. The experiences and connections forged during this week will undoubtedly inspire participants to create impactful think tanks in their communities, contributing to a brighter future for youth-led initiatives across Europe.
