Training course "SMART YOUth"

The SMART YOUth training course is designed to strengthen the competences of youth workers and educators working in non-formal learning and youth work settings, responding to the growing impact of digitalisation on young people’s lives.

The training focuses on digital youth work, critical thinking, and media literacy, supporting participants in developing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to guide young people in navigating complex digital and information environments. Particular attention is given to online safety, ethical behaviour, digital wellbeing, and responsible participation in online spaces.

The programme is built around non-formal education principles, combining experiential learning, reflection, and peer exchange. Participants engage in interactive workshops, case studies, role-playing exercises, simulations, group discussions, and collaborative tasks based on real youth-work situations. This approach ensures a strong connection between learning content and everyday practice in youth work.

Throughout the training, participants explore how digital tools and platforms can be used meaningfully in youth engagement while also addressing risks related to misinformation, privacy, and online behaviour. The course encourages critical reflection, creativity, and the sharing of experiences between youth workers from different backgrounds and contexts.

By the end of the training, participants will be better equipped to integrate digital tools into their youth work practice, strengthen young people’s critical thinking and media literacy skills, and promote safer and more ethical digital participation in their local communities.

️Training course dates: May 17-22, 2026.
Location: Hotel "Royal Spa Residence", Birštonas, Lithuania.

Profile of participants:

The training course is intended for specialists working with young people in non-formal education and youth work contexts, including:

• Youth workers and educators;
• Social workers and counsellors;
• Youth project coordinators and managers;
• Community leaders and activists;
• Coordinators and mentors of youth volunteers.

Participants should have at least 1 year of relevant experience in youth work, non-formal education, mentoring, counselling, or project-based work with young people.

Additional requirements:

• Ability to communicate in English;
• Availability to participate in the entire duration of the training course.

> Registration deadline: April 3, 2026
> Selection results announced: April 10 2026

This training is part of the project No. 2025-1-LT02-KA151-YOU-000300777 co-funded by the European Union.