Starting the implementation of the Erasmus+ program for 2021-2027 project “UP2YOUTH – democratic future in the hands of responsible young people”, a Kick-off meeting was held from December 12 to 13 in Krakow, Poland. Representatives of 4 partner organizations – Ježija Regulska Local Democracy Development Fund (Poland, Lead partner of the project), Local Government Reform Fund (Bulgaria), Vidzeme Planning Region (Latvia) and EDUcentrum (Czech Republic) – will work together to create new, more effective methods and tools in the field of youth civic education, media education and media literacy.
The main task of the project is to promote the involvement of young people in democratic processes and public participation. To achieve this, it is essential to enhance the quality of civic education materials, update them to meet current needs, and make them more appealing and engaging for the target audience—young people. As part of the project, an innovative digital game will be developed, featuring six video scenarios focused on decision-making to enhance media literacy skills. Additionally, educational materials will be created for educators and trainers working with young people. The game and materials will be tested in each partner country, and based on feedback and suggestions, the game will be refined and improved.
During the visit, project partners had the opportunity to engage in hands-on experience and test the decision-making-based games. Under the guidance of the instructor, they explored the structure of the video games, the types of user interfaces, and the significance of element placement. They also examined the principles of gamification in education and the key factors for developing a successful and engaging digital game.
The lead partner will oversee the technical development of the game, while the other project partners will contribute to the creation of six scenarios and the organization of game testing sessions for various target groups (young people, educators, youth policy makers, and media literacy experts).
In March 2025, project partners will gather in Sofia, Bulgaria, to gain insights into the state of media literacy and civic participation among young people. They will also continue their work on game development and scenario preparation.
