Learn and Assemble with BEST is an innovative international event organised by the BEST AGH Kraków student association and intended for students from across Europe. The event focuses on cooperation between academia and business, while also providing a unique environment in which students can acquire knowledge beyond the academic curriculum and build connections throughout Europe.
The first edition of the competition, held under the theme “Create Your Own Smart City”, will take place on the campus of AGH University of Krakow from 24 to 28 August 2026. During the event, nearly 30 students from eight European countries will participate in this unique competition, which will address a broad range of issues related to the concept of a Smart City, including construction, logistics and the human dimension of urban life.
The event has a comprehensive structure designed to provide participants with opportunities for development and the practical application of the knowledge they acquire. On the final day, their work will be evaluated by a qualified jury. Each day begins with training sessions conducted by experts in selected Smart City fields or by representatives of the event’s partner companies. This creates an ideal opportunity for participants to learn about the expectations and needs of the business environment.
Following the training sessions, participants will work in groups of three or four on projects presenting their vision of a Smart City. During this stage, they will not only be able to apply the knowledge gained during the training sessions, but also test their teamwork skills, creativity and resourcefulness.
In the evenings, students will have the opportunity to experience Krakow’s architecture and culture first-hand. These activities will provide a welcome break from the intellectual effort of the day, while also giving participants time to consider whether their ideas could be applied in the real world.
The competition will culminate in presentations during which each team will present its project to the jury. The assessment will focus not only on the visual aspects of each project, but also on the teams’ ability to select appropriate innovations and combine them in an intelligent and coherent manner. The jury will select the three best teams, distinguished by their innovation and creativity.
Learn and Assemble with BEST is more than an ordinary competition. It is a place for learning, building friendships, and gaining and exchanging experience. Participants will have the opportunity to develop creative thinking, teamwork and language skills – competencies that are highly valuable in any professional environment.
Furthermore, through cooperation with representatives of the business community throughout the event, participants will gain a better understanding of their future working environment and its needs.
