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1. Innovation in formal education

2. Fostering innovation through non-formal and informal learning and youth work

Innovation in formal education

In Slovakia, innovation-related competencies—such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and entrepreneurship—are primarily integrated into cross-curricular themes and optional modules at the upper secondary level. These are not standalone mandatory subjects but are part of broader curricular reforms that emphasize 21st-century skills and interdisciplinary learning. This approach aims to prepare young learners for a rapidly changing world by fostering their capacity to generate and apply new ideas.

To support this, the Ministry of Education launched the “Rozšírenie overených inovácií vo výchove a vzdelávaní v školách” programme in 2024, allocating €1.38 million in grants to scale up proven educational innovations. Projects supported under this initiative promote:

• Active and experiential learning methods,
• Development of digital, financial, emotional, and social literacies,
• Inclusive and participatory learning environments,
• Leadership and creativity among both students and educators.

Teachers are supported through professional development opportunities and access to open educational resources, enabling them to adopt learner-centred and innovative teaching practices. Additionally, national digital education projects are equipping schools with modern infrastructure and tools, helping ensure equal access to innovation-enhancing education across regions and socioeconomic groups.

Fostering innovation through non-formal and informal learning and youth work

Beyond formal education, young people in Slovakia also develop innovation-related skills through non-formal and informal learning and youth work.

In 2025, the Ministry of Labour launched SocInoLab, co-funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), to build regional social innovation ecosystems. These include incubators, accelerators, and collaborative platforms that connect public, private, academic, and civil society actors. While not exclusively youth-focused, these initiatives provide young participants with opportunities to engage in innovation projects, develop entrepreneurial mindsets, and contribute to solving social challenges.

Non-governmental organisations also play a key role in fostering innovation among young people. Through annual project calls, the Ministry of Education supports youth organisations and NGOs that promote digital skills, creative thinking, and youth participation in innovation-related activities. These initiatives provide young people with accessible, community-based opportunities to explore new technologies, collaborate on projects, and gain practical experience in innovation outside formal education settings.