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

Apply Here

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.

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Debunker Summer School of Media Literacy @THE CIVICS Innovation Hub