Sarajevo, 23 April 2025 – On the occasion of the International Day of Creativity and Innovation (21 April), which highlights the importance of creative thinking and innovation in advancing social development, the UNFPA, United Nations Population Fund in Bosnia and Herzegovina, in partnership with 15 cities across the country and key education stakeholders, successfully hosted “Innovation Day: Game-Based Learning for Peacebuilding and Social Cohesion” at the UN House in Sarajevo.

The event celebrated the achievements of young creators who developed a peacebuilding board game—an innovative educational tool designed to promote critical thinking, empathy, and unity among students. Developed through UNFPA’s Educational Lab (EduLab) for Game-Based Learning, the game combines peacebuilding principles, the Sustainable Development Goals, and local heritage, offering a fresh alternative to traditional classroom methods.

Young designers and their mentors shared their experiences during a roundtable discussion. “It was incredible to see our ideas turn into something real that can actually bring youth together,” said Lukas Nikolić, 19-year-old participant from Tuzla. “This project showed me that peace can be taught—and played.”

A formal signing ceremony marked a key milestone, as principals and teachers from across Bosnia and Herzegovina committed to integrating the game into their school curricula. Complimentary copies were distributed to support immediate classroom implementation.

The day concluded with the interactive “Let’s Play for Peace” session, where students, educators, and participants engaged in a friendly board game competition—demonstrating the game's power to foster dialogue and cooperation in a fun, engaging format.

“This event was more than just a celebration of a game – it was a celebration of youth voice, creativity, and the power of education to bring people together,” said Justine Coulson, UNFPA Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The ideas and energy we witnessed reaffirm our belief in young people as drivers of positive change.”

Over 80 participants attended, including representatives from the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Youth of Canton Sarajevo, civil society organizations, international partners, and educators and youth from the following 15 cities: Sarajevo, East Sarajevo, Banja Luka, Bijeljina, Bosanski Petrovac, Brčko, Tuzla, Zenica, Vitez, Teslić, Mostar, Stolac, Trebinje, Foča, and Goražde.
This event was organized within the Youth 4 Inclusion, Equality and Trust/Moving us Closer project, funded by the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund and the Italian Embassy in BiH. The project empowers youth to challenge divisive narratives and foster inclusive, shared futures through creative, community-based engagement.