European Capital of Culture Trenčín 2026 enriches the region not only with cultural events but also through educational activities. One of its goals is to prepare a new generation capable of addressing challenges and contributing to the region’s development.
Project A New Generation of Creative Leaders – Inventive Leadership for High Schools, implemented in collaboration with LEAF Academy, involves students and educators from Gymnázium in Dubnica nad Váhom and Piaristické gymnázium in Trenčín. The program is built on educational workshops that primarily support project-based learning, foster students’ creativity, and develop skills essential for everyday life and future careers.
Project-Based Learning (PBL) methodology connects school curricula with real-life problems and challenges that students tackle. During workshops, young people learned numerous practical examples of project management, which they can apply to their current school projects. Areas where students aim to utilize the acquired knowledge include tutoring peers, volunteering, and creating a class magazine.
“The value of the program lies mainly in its ability to broaden young people’s horizons. In all participating classes, I encountered very talented students, and it brings me joy that we can provide them with tools they can practically use in their daily lives,” says Simona Müllerová, Head of Admissions at LEAF Academy.
During the first workshop, students explored their potential and identified their strengths. The subsequent workshop guided them through the process of designing and executing a project, focusing on practical examples and addressing the needs and issues they perceive in their surroundings.
One of the key moments was a discussion with inspiring guests who shared their stories, experiences, and challenges on their journey to a successful idea, project, or business. Guests included Adam Solár, Sebestyén Marosz (Slovak Model Parliament), Katarína Janíčková (Fabrika Umenia), Veronika Kostková (a successful fashion designer), and Dávid Oravec (an IT specialist). This discussion motivated students to work on their ideas, be proactive, and make the most of the opportunities that arise.
“From the workshop How to Start Your Own Project, I learned that I, too, can address problems in my surroundings. I’m very creative and enjoy making life easier for others,” said one of the students.
The program also includes workshops for educators. Teachers from both schools participated in educational workshops focused on supporting project-based learning. This program was implemented in collaboration with DASATO, an organization with years of experience working with young people and developing 21st-century skills.
Both schools had already been intuitively implementing project-based learning, but the workshops provided them with specific methodologies and inspirations for further integrating it into their teaching subjects. The key topic was the basics of project-based learning, which most teachers attended. Other topics included forming a key question, supporting students, or preparing a project with an external organization.
In the next school year, Trenčín 2026, in collaboration with LEAF Academy, plans to expand the project to other schools in the region. High schools interested in participating can contact the organizers now.
“We believe that practical education can significantly contribute to positive changes in regions and develop the potential of young people,” concludes Simona Müllerová.
Photo: Juraj Majerský
