Kolín, a picturesque town in the Czech Republic, hosted youth leaders from across Europe from October 19 to 27, 2024, during the Erasmus+ project “G.A.M.E.” (Gamification As Method for Education), organized by our Czech partner organization CEFIG International. The project aimed not only to introduce participants to the world of gamification but also to inspire them to use games as tools to promote core values and develop young people’s skills.

The program brought together participants from eight countries, including representatives from YoWo Poland. They explored the theoretical foundations of gamification and had the opportunity to design their own educational games that could be used in youth work.

A Place and atmosphere full of inspiration

As Teresku, one of the Polish participants, recalls:
“I have very fond memories of the Erasmus trip to Kolín. I had the chance to explore not only the town where the Erasmus program took place but also nearby Prague, where I visited the Charles Bridge and the stunning Old Town, the sight of which still lingers in my mind. The knowledge I gained during the trip is already finding its way into my daily life, and I hope to use it even more in the future!”

Learning Through Games

The project aimed not only to introduce participants to gamification methods but also to enhance their skills in facilitation, group management, and creating games with educational value. With professional support from trainers, the participants discovered how games could shape attitudes and skills.

Gosia, another project participant sent by YoWo Poland, shares her thoughts:
“Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be part of such an amazing project! Every participant in this training course brought something new into my life, and I’m extremely grateful for having met them. Spending time with such incredible, creative people was an unforgettable experience. The project itself was extremely interesting — even though it lasted only a week, I learned a lot of new things that I’m sure I’ll be able to use in many different ways. I would love to participate in projects like this again!”

A Shared Future Under Erasmus+

Thanks to the support of the Erasmus+ program, CEFIG International created a space for intercultural exchange and personal growth for all participants. The G.A.M.E. Erasmus+ project demonstrates that gamification is more than just fun – it’s a tool that can transform young people’s lives and inspire them to act within their communities.

The Erasmus+ Training Course “G.A.M.E.” was funded by the European Union under the Erasmus+ programme.

This article was edited by Urszula Leszczyńska from YoWo Poland.