Engaging Public Administration through Play: Innovation Journey Workshop Held in Trutnov

On 21–22 November 2025, the INNlocal project delivered another active learning workshop, this time at the Faculty of Public Services´ consulting centre in Trutnov, Czech Republic. The session facilitated by dr. Magdalena Chmelařová brought together students, professionals, and public administration staff to explore new approaches to innovation in local governance.
A key part of the programme was the Innovation Journey card game, which introduces participants to complex governance themes through structured dialogue and playful interaction. Instead of traditional lecturing, the workshop emphasised experience-based learning, encouraging participants to test ideas, reflect on real challenges, and consider alternative perspectives.
Through the game’s Scenario, Action, and Challenge stages, participants encountered situations inspired by everyday public-sector practice—such as resource constraints, citizen engagement dilemmas, or organisational resistance to change. These discussions served as a springboard for developing practical insights and proposals that could support innovation in municipal settings.
Just like the previous session in Tábor, the Trutnov workshop demonstrated how gamification and collaborative discussion can make learning more engaging and relevant for diverse groups. It also highlighted the value of creating shared spaces where stakeholders can experiment, exchange viewpoints, and jointly envision more innovative and responsive public services.