29/05/2026
From May 18 to 25, 2026, the international training course “Mind and Intelligence” took place in Pazardzhik, Bulgaria, organized by association NAVIGATOR under the Erasmus+ Programme. The project brought together 36 youth workers, educators, and facilitators from Bulgaria, Estonia, Poland, Italy, Slovakia, and Türkiye.
The training course aimed to improve the cognitive, social, and communication skills of youth workers through the use of mind and intelligence games as tools in non-formal education. Throughout the project, participants explored innovative methods for developing critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among young people.
During the mobility, participants took part in interactive workshops, strategy games, simulations, reflection sessions, and group activities designed to encourage active participation and experiential learning. The programme also focused on the educational value of cooperative and competitive games and how they can be adapted for different target groups and learning environments.
One of the highlights of the training course was the collaborative game design sessions, where participants created and adapted educational games that could later be used in youth work activities and local workshops. The project also promoted inclusion and equal opportunities by encouraging participation from young people with diverse social and cultural backgrounds.
The “Mind and Intelligence” project contributed to the professional development of youth workers by providing them with practical tools and new approaches for engaging young people through non-formal education. Participants also strengthened their intercultural communication, teamwork, and facilitation skills.
The organizers emphasized that Erasmus+ projects continue to play an important role in supporting innovation, active participation, and international cooperation in the field of youth work.
With its successful implementation, “Mind and Intelligence” demonstrated how game-based learning and non-formal education can inspire young people, strengthen key competences, and create meaningful international connections.
