The project aimed to strengthen integrity education in school settings by equipping students and teachers with innovative and future-oriented educational tools. A primary objective was to empower students to develop critical thinking and awareness of integrity-related behaviors, enabling them to understand how everyday choices may influence their future educational, professional, and social trajectories. Another key objective was to support teachers and schools by providing practical resources and pedagogical guidance for addressing integrity in a non-prescriptive and engaging manner. The project aimed to move beyond rule-based approaches and promote experiential learning that encourages reflection, dialogue, and active participation. The project also aimed to design a digital educational toolbox and framework grounded in evidence and needs analysis. By that, the partnership intended to ensure relevance, usability, and transferability across different educational contexts. A further objective was to foster cross-sector and transnational cooperation. Through this collaboration, the project aimed to build shared understanding, exchange good practices, and contribute to broader educational and policy discussions on integrity.
The project was developed in response to clearly identified needs related to integrity education in school settings, particularly in South Balkan countries. At the time of application, partners observed that integrity issues were present in school communities, yet were often addressed in a fragmented, theoretical, or punitive manner. There was a lack of structured, age-appropriate, and engaging educational approaches that could meaningfully support students in understanding integrity-related concepts and reflect on them. Another key need was the limited availability of tools that connect integrity education with students’ everyday experiences. Existing initiatives often focus on rules and compliance rather than on critical thinking and long-term responsibility. Also, teachers reported a lack of practical guidance and cross-curricular resources to address integrity in within the constraints of formal education. Finally, the partnership recognized the need for cross-sector cooperation among multiple sectors. By combining expertise across sectors and countries, the project aimed to develop evidence-based and innovative tools that empower students, support teachers, and contribute to a stronger culture of integrity.