Dialogue of cultures
DEMOCRACY AND TOLERANCE EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM IN KRAKOW
We strengthen democratic values and tolerance through experience.
We help young people develop empathy, social awareness and active citizenship.
Partners:
We cooperate with museums, foundations,
NGOs and centers of intercultural dialogue in Krakow.
About Us
Democracy and Tolerance
The „Democracy and Tolerance” education initiative in Krakow offers a platform for your students to enhance their abilities in promoting, protecting, and embodying the values integral to democracies and their institutions. Our facilities boast a diverse range of offerings, allowing us to tailor our services to meet your specific needs and expectations.
Participants will delve into reflections on the active involvement of students teachers, and the school in reinforcing and advancing democracy. These activities will be conducted in collaboration with various institutions, including institutes in Poland, youth centers, foundations, museums, and cultural establishments.
As part of the „Democracy and Tolerance” educational program in Krakow, your school will engage in enriching activities aimed at fostering an understanding of exemplary actions for democracy
and its institutions. Upon participation, your school will be presented with a certificate recognizing
your commitment.
During the program, your students will have the opportunity to engage in compelling projects and
initiatives for the local community, attend captivating lectures and workshops, and explore museums.
We meticulously organize these activities to maximize the experiential and knowledge gains from
the trip, ensuring it is both educational and enjoyable for all participants. Join us in cultivating
a deeper appreciation for democracy while creating lasting memories and skills for your students.
We Will Take Care Of:
- Program: Including volunteering and workshops at Auschwitz, volunteering at Polish cemeteries and museums, workshops in international dialogue centres and NGO’s, an educational walk in the Krakow ghetto, meetings with Polish students and cultural excursions.
- Accommodation: Comfortable stay with hassle-free lodging arrangements.
- Airport/Train Station Transfers: Seamless transportations from the airport to your Krakow experience.
- Cultural Excursions: Engage in a variety of cultural activities, from museum tours to historical city games.
- Duration of the course: From a few days to a few weeks. You choose the option that suits you best
Educational Program
Visiting Auschwitz with workshops and volunteering
Step into the profound historical significance of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, an enduring symbol of Nazi genocide and terror. As the largest Nazi concentration camp during World War II, Auschwitz Museum encapsulates the haunting history of the site in its two parts: Auschwitz and Birkenau. Immerse yourself in this authentic memorial, and let it serve as an educational journey, offering a deeper understanding of the atrocities that occurred. Contribute to preserving the legacy of Auschwitz by engaging in volunteer work at the Auschwitz Museum. Your support is invaluable, and there are various ways to get involved. Whether on-site, where you can participate in physical work and gain profound insights into the historical significance, or remotely, working on museum projects using your PC or laptop, every contribution is appreciated. This unique volunteer opportunity not only enhances your understanding of this historical site but also provides you with a meaningful and unforgettable experience in a special line of work.
Volunteering in Museum of Krakow
Engage in meaningful volunteer work at the renowned Museum of Krakow, the primary institution chronicling the city’s rich history. This opportunity provides an unparalleled avenue to delve into the origins of Krakow. Collaborate closely with the museum staff, actively contributing to the smooth operation of the institution. Immerse yourself in hands-on learning, acquiring valuable experiences not only in museum upkeeping but also in international work, fostering language proficiency, and enhancing your English skills. Enrich your understanding of Krakow’s history and its relationship with its Jewish inhabitants through visits to various exhibitions in the Krakow Museum. Explore the Schindler Factory, a former shell factory that played a pivotal role in saving Jewish lives during World War II. Lastly, visit the Pharmacy „pod Orlem,” a significant meeting place for Jewish conspiracies within the Krakow Ghetto, and learn about its crucial role as a provider of much-needed medicine.
Educational Walk through Kracovian Ghettos
Take a poignant stroll through the remnants of the Krakow Ghetto, witnessing the places where Jewish individuals were forcibly confined by their oppressors. Gain firsthand knowledge of the inhumane conditions they endured. The remnants of the Ghetto, including walls modeled after Jewish gravestones, still stand, serving as a tangible connection to the past.visit the Pharmacy „pod Orlem,” a significant meeting place for Jewish conspiracies within the Krakow Ghetto, and learn about its crucial role as a provider of much-needed medicine.
Volunteering in the Polish Cemeteries
Explore another rewarding volunteering opportunity amidst nature at the historical cemeteries in Krakow. With a history spanning over 200 years, this sacred ground serves as the final resting place for numerous influential figures in Krakowian and Polish history. The cemeteries are also home to soldiers from the First World War and the parents of Pope John Paul II, among many others. Contribute to the maintenance of the lush surroundings and orderly arrangement of the cemeteries, all while gaining hands-on experience in outdoor work. This volunteering opportunity provides a unique chance to learn about environmental stewardship and horticulture, fostering personal and professional growth. Join us in honoring the legacy of Krakow and its people while creating a lasting impact on this cherished green space.
Meeting with Polish students
We are excited to offer you the chance to engage in a unique meeting opportunity with students from Polish schools. During this enriching experience, you will have the opportunity to actively participate in workshops and attend their classes. This will provide you with valuable insights into their democratic system of government, allowing you to hear diverse opinions and perspectives not only about their homeland but also concerning the European Union and the global community. Moreover, you are invited to join after-school activities that will deepen your understanding of Krakow and help you forge connections with both local and international peers. By navigating a different educational environment, you are sure to gain fresh perspectives and broaden your horizons.
Workshops, discussions in international dialogue centres and NGO’s
Based on universal values and as part of promoting a democratic and tolerant attitude, you will take part in workshops, discussions and lectures at Krakow’s intercultural dialogue centres, foundations and associations, which are a forge of civil society and incubators of grassroots initiatives in Krakow. Participating in classes popularizing knowledge about the multicultural history of Poland and the history of Krakow will strenghten knowledge about different cultures and the threats resulting from extremism and intolerance, including the effects of World War II.
Cultural Program
Zakopane Mountains Trip
Zakopane, known as the winter capital of Poland, beckons tourists to its picturesque mountains, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and immersion in Polish folklore. Regardless of the season or weather, Zakopane promises endless activities. From beautiful mountain trails and ski slopes to the bustling Krupowki Street, a vibrant market, the Gubalowka peak, and the iconic Giewont Peak, Zakopane and its surroundings guarantee an abundance of options for both leisure and adventure. Must-visit attractions include Nosal, Siklawica, Morskie Oko Lake, Five Ponds Valley, Koscielisko’s Valley, and a myriad of enticing mountain trails.
Ojcow National Park
Poland’s smallest yet stunning Ojcow National Park captivates with diverse nature, breathtaking panoramas, old castles, caves, and more. Despite its compact size, entry to the park is free, making it an accessible and appealing destination for a day immersed in nature, offering a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of Krakow’s city center. The park’s proximity to Krakow makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty on a sunny day.
Salt Mine Wieliczka
This remarkable mine stands as the second oldest of its kind in Europe and holds a cherished place in Poland’s rich history, earning its spot on the prestigious UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites. With its unique landscapes, including salt springs, captivating underground chambers, and two awe-inspiring chapels, the Salt Mine Wieliczka is a testament to centuries of mining craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the past methods of salt extraction and transportation while immersing themselves in the history through displays of old mining tools and machinery.
Botanical Garden of Jagiellonian University in Krakow
Established in 1783, the Botanical Garden of Jagiellonian University is Poland’s oldest and has been an integral part of scientific, educational, and research developments throughout its long history. Situated east of the old town and easily accessible by foot, this beautiful garden offers a delightful learning experience and is a must-see spectacle in Krakow. Its lush greenery and diverse flora make it a serene escape within the bustling city.
What Can Be The Outcome?
Why Join?
- Exploring human rights from a historical perspective, students will gain insights into the contemporary risks associated with their violation.
- Enhancing crosscultural understanding, students will broaden their knowledge and experiences by engaging with diverse perspectives from various countries.
- Beyond traditional theoretical lectures, our workshops prioritize experiential learning. Students will have the unique opportunity to witness historical sites firsthand, deepening their understanding and connection to the subject matter.
- Active engagement in these experiences will not only foster a deeper awareness of tolerance but also cultivate sensitivity towards diverse perspectives and individuals.
