The second Regional Workshop on the UPSHIFT Programme, organised by the CEI in collaboration with UNICEF, took place on 21 November 2025. The event brought together UNICEF experts and government representatives from CEI Member States at the CEI Executive Secretariat in Trieste.
Building on the outcomes of the first workshop, this event provided a significant platform for dialogue and the exchange of best practices. The focus was particularly on UPSHIFT's regional scale models, blended learning approaches, and the use of AI tools to enhance teaching and learning outcomes across the region.
During the workshop, participants explored concrete experiences from across the CEI region, including recent developments in Italy and Bosnia and Herzegovina, where UPSHIFT has progressively shifted from a bootcamp model to school-based implementation supported by extended learning cycles and strengthened teacher training. These examples highlighted the growing engagement of civil society and government partners in integrating UPSHIFT within national education systems.
Delegates received an update on the expanding evidence base for UPSHIFT, including recent findings showing that innovation can be taught in schools and that embedding the programme contributes to the development of life skills, employability and social cohesion. International blended learning models already implemented at large scale were also presented, illustrating their potential for further adaptation across the CEI region.
A dedicated session focused on the role of AI in supporting teacher training, improving learning outcomes and facilitating the localisation of UPSHIFT materials. Participants were introduced to the new UPSHIFT GEM, a customised AI tool designed to help teachers understand the methodology, develop lesson plans and provide personalised feedback to students.
Zsuzsanna Király, the CEI Deputy Secretary General, opened the workshop by stating:
“UPSHIFT perfectly aligns with the rationale behind the CEI goals: to improve the quality of life of young people by enhancing their education, providing equal opportunities, encouraging their participation in decision-making processes, and equipping them with essential 21st-century skills. Ultimately, this empowers young people to take control of their future, including transitioning smoothly from education to the job market.”
In the afternoon sessions, participants discussed ways to develop learning pathways that connect young people with practical skills and workplace experience, ensuring a seamless transition from education to the professional world.
Herve Morin, UPSHIFT Global Lead at the UNICEF Office of Innovation, said:
“UPSHIFT’s integration into national education systems is strongest when governments learn from one another, and the Central European Initiative has been instrumental in making that possible. This second annual conference demonstrates a growing community of practice that supports countries in equipping adolescents and young people with the skills and mindset they need to succeed in their personal, academic and professional lives.”
The meeting concluded with group reflections and a shared commitment to strengthening UPSHIFT delivery across the region and further supporting its integration into national education systems.
For more info: radovanovic@cei.int
