Media and information shape nearly every aspect of modern life. From social media feeds and online news platforms to videos, podcasts, and messaging apps, people are constantly exposed to information that influences opinions, decisions, and behaviors. However, the rapid spread of misinformation, disinformation, conspiracy theories, and online manipulation has made media literacy one of the most essential skills for young people today.
To help address these challenges, THE CIVICS Innovation Hub and Fakescape z.s. have launched applications for the Debunker Summer School of Media Literacy 2026, an exciting international learning experience taking place in Horní Sokolovec, Czechia, from 10–13 August 2026.
The program is designed for young people who are passionate about understanding how information ecosystems work, strengthening critical thinking skills, and learning practical methods to identify and counter misinformation in their communities.
Applications are now open, and interested participants have until 8 July 2026 at 23:59 CET to apply.
What is the Debunker Summer School of Media Literacy?
The Debunker Summer School of Media Literacy is an international educational program that brings together young people from across Europe to explore the complex world of media, information, and public discourse.
Participants will engage in a series of interactive learning experiences focused on:
- Media literacy
- Critical thinking
- Information verification
- Understanding misinformation
- Recognizing manipulation techniques
- Combating conspiracy theories
- Civic engagement
- Responsible digital citizenship
Rather than relying solely on traditional lectures, the program uses practical and participatory methods to ensure participants gain hands-on experience and real-world skills.
Why Media Literacy Matters More Than Ever
In today’s digital age, information travels faster than ever before. While this creates opportunities for education and communication, it also allows false information to spread rapidly.
Young people regularly encounter:
- Fake news stories
- Manipulated content
- Deepfakes
- Online propaganda
- Misleading headlines
- Conspiracy theories
- Algorithm-driven information bubbles
Without strong media literacy skills, it can become difficult to distinguish reliable information from misleading content.
The Debunker Summer School seeks to equip participants with practical tools to:
- Analyze information critically.
- Verify sources and claims.
- Identify manipulation tactics.
- Understand how misinformation spreads.
- Promote informed decision-making.
- Contribute positively to public discussions.
Program Objectives
The Summer School aims to help participants:
1. Develop Critical Thinking Skills
Participants will learn how to question information, assess evidence, and evaluate sources before accepting claims as facts.
2. Understand Information Ecosystems
The program explores how information is created, shared, amplified, and consumed in modern digital environments.
3. Recognize Misinformation and Disinformation
Attendees will gain insights into how false narratives are constructed and spread.
4. Learn Through Interactive Experiences
The Summer School emphasizes experiential learning through:
- Workshops
- Simulations
- Educational games
- Group discussions
- Practical exercises
- Collaborative activities
5. Promote Active Citizenship
Participants will explore ways to become informed and engaged citizens capable of contributing to healthier information environments.
What Participants Will Learn
Throughout the four-day program, participants will explore topics such as:
Media Influence and Public Opinion
Understanding how media affects:
- Individual beliefs
- Social attitudes
- Political opinions
- Public behavior
Information Manipulation Techniques
Participants will learn how:
- Emotional messaging works
- Clickbait is designed
- False narratives spread
- Online influence campaigns operate
Conspiracy Theories
The program examines:
- Why conspiracy theories emerge
- How they gain traction
- Their impact on society
- Strategies for addressing them constructively
Fact-Checking and Verification
Participants will practice methods for:
- Verifying sources
- Evaluating credibility
- Cross-checking information
- Identifying misinformation
Digital Citizenship
Young leaders will explore their role in:
- Responsible information sharing
- Community engagement
- Civic participation
- Building informed societies
Interactive Learning Approach
One of the unique aspects of the Debunker Summer School is its practical learning model.
Participants will engage in:
- Interactive workshops
- Team-based exercises
- Educational games
- Simulations
- Group discussions
- Collaborative problem-solving activities
This approach ensures that participants not only learn theoretical concepts but also apply them in realistic scenarios.
International Networking Opportunities
Beyond academic learning, the Summer School provides participants with the opportunity to:
- Meet peers from different European countries
- Exchange experiences and perspectives
- Build international friendships
- Join a network of young changemakers
- Collaborate on future initiatives
The multicultural environment helps participants gain broader perspectives on media literacy challenges across Europe.
Program Details
Event Dates
10–13 August 2026
Location
Horní Sokolovec, Czechia
Working Language
English
Organizers
The Summer School is organized by:
- Fakescape z.s.
- THE CIVICS Innovation Hub
The initiative is supported through the Network of European Civic Education (NECE), which is financially supported by the German Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb).
Who Should Apply?
The organizers are seeking motivated young people who:
- Are between 18 and 30 years old.
- Live in a European country.
- Are active in their communities.
- Have an interest in media literacy.
- Want to learn about misinformation and disinformation.
- Enjoy interactive and experiential learning.
- Are interested in critical thinking and civic engagement.
- Want to connect with peers from across Europe.
Benefits of Participating
Selected participants will benefit from:
- International learning experience.
- Expert-led workshops.
- Practical media literacy training.
- Enhanced critical thinking skills.
- Exposure to innovative educational methods.
- Networking with participants from across Europe.
- Cross-cultural exchange opportunities.
- Greater understanding of misinformation and digital manipulation.
- Opportunities to become more active and informed citizens.
Application Deadline
Deadline for Applications:
8 July 2026 (23:59 CET)
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible because available places are limited.
Selected participants will be notified shortly after the application deadline.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official application platform provided by THE CIVICS Innovation Hub.
For questions regarding the program, applicants may contact:
Fidelis Kwadwo Nketia
Email: nece-labs@thecivics.eu
Why You Should Apply
The Debunker Summer School of Media Literacy 2026 offers a unique opportunity for young Europeans to strengthen their ability to navigate today’s complex information environment. As misinformation continues to affect societies worldwide, the ability to critically assess information has become an essential life skill.
By participating in this program, young people will gain valuable knowledge, practical tools, international connections, and the confidence needed to become informed citizens and community leaders capable of promoting accurate information and constructive public dialogue.
With a strong focus on interactive learning, collaboration, and civic engagement, the Debunker Summer School provides an excellent platform for personal growth and meaningful impact.
For more information click here
Discover more opportunities on OFY, here
