Game of Growth - Training Course

In today’s fast-paced digital world, engaging young people in civic life, education, and community initiatives is more complex than ever. Facing challenges like fragmented attention, information overload, and shifting participation patterns, youth workers constantly need innovative strategies to keep young minds motivated and involved.  

To address this pressing need, the Erasmus+ training course Game of Growth took place from February 25 to March 5, 2025, in Castelletto di Cuggiono (Milan, Italy)

What Was the Purpose of the Project?

The core mission of Game of Growth was to equip youth workers with creative skills, digital tools, and practical methodologies to make learning dynamic, interactive, and youth-centered. By merging the fields of youth participation and game mechanics, the training aimed to rethink how non-formal learning can spark curiosity, build critical thinking, and foster active citizenship.

Set against the scenic backdrop of the Ticino Valley Natural Park, participants spent eight days analyzing local youth realities, discussing the impacts of AI and digital transformation, and experimenting with both physical and digital game-based learning tools.

What Did Participants Learn?

Through a carefully crafted mix of interactive workshops, digital labs, and collaborative simulations, participants acquired a rich set of practical competences:

• Gamification & Game Design

• Non-Formal Learning Methodologies

• Digital Creativity & Tools

• Active Listening & Leadership

Objectives Achieved and Key Outcomes

Game of Growth delivered tangible outcomes that go far beyond the duration of the course itself:

• Empowered Youth Workers: Participants returned to their home countries confident in using playful, participatory, and learner-centered approaches to inspire young people.

• Enhanced Community Impact: Organizations across Europe now possess new tools to address disengagement and build inclusive environments for youth from all backgrounds.

• Strengthened European Cooperation: The training established a solid network of international partners committed to future Erasmus+ initiatives focused on digital transformation and youth empowerment.

Project Context: Erasmus+ Training Course 

Name of the Project: Game of Growth