The project “From Darwin to Biotechnologies: Engineering the Code of Life” emerges directly from our daily youth work practice, where we observe a growing interest in modern technologies combined with a lack of in-depth understanding and space for critical reflection on their consequences. Young people increasingly hear about gene editing, gene therapy, or artificial intelligence, yet they rarely have the opportunity to truly understand how these technologies emerged, how they function, and what ethical and social challenges they entail. The project guides participants through the most important milestones in the history of science – from Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, through the discovery of the DNA structure by James Watson and Francis Crick, to the groundbreaking achievements of Jennifer Doudna and the development of CRISPR technology enabling precise modification of the code of life. This new field of bioengineering, in which humans begin to directly intervene in DNA, constitutes the core focus of our reflection. From the perspective of youth work practice, the project responds to the need to combine scientific knowledge with civic education. Participants will explore both the enormous potential of gene-editing technologies – particularly in treating genetic diseases – and the risks related to their unregulated development, such as the possible deepening of social inequalities, exclusion of disadvantaged groups from access to expensive therapies, or the use of technology for “enhancement” rather than treatment. We will also examine the role of artificial intelligence in designing gene therapies and its limitations and ethical implications. The project will be implemented using non-formal education methods: experiments (including DNA-related activities), interactive workshops, educational games, quizzes, debates, and presentations of professional IT tools used by bioengineers. Participants will work in international groups, developing cooperation skills, communication in English, and the ability to construct and defend their arguments. A meeting with a young researcher – a PhD candidate in biology – will provide insight into real-life scientific practice. A key objective and tangible outcome of the project will be the development of a memorandum outlining proposed principles and regulations for the responsible use of gene editing technology, integrating scientific, ethical, social, and legal perspectives. In this way, young people will not only gain knowledge but will also become active contributors to the debate on the future of biotechnology. The project aims to inspire young people to further develop their interests, discover their passions, and engage actively in public discourse. It strengthens their sense of agency and demonstrates that scientific progress must go hand in hand with responsibility, ethical reflection, and civic engagement.