Youth 4 eco edu

About the project

Project title: CARPATHIAN YOUTH FOR ECO SMART EDUCATION

Source of financing: Program Interreg NEXT Polska - Ukraina 2021-2027

Implementation period: - 01.09.2024 - 31.08.2026

Project partners:

• Jaroslaw State Academy of Applied Sciences - lead partner
• Association of the Carpathian Euroregion 
• Magura National Park
• Zakarpattia Regional Development Agency
• Uzhhorod National University
• Uzhanskyi National Nature Park

Project total value: 1 837 221,39 EUR (80% co-financing)

Project value implemented by ACE: 168 901,04 EUR

Project aim

The aim of the project is to create a modern ecological and educational environment for pupils and students. The project involves the implementation of specialist ecological education programmes for primary and secondary school pupils in border regions. These programmes will include practical classes, trips and ecological initiatives, the aim of which is to help young people understand the importance of environmental protection and biodiversity. At the same time, it involves the promotion of biodiversity and the natural heritage of the region.

Idea and short project description

The project involves education on biodiversity and promotion of natural heritage. It includes the creation of interactive nature centers, the aim of which is to promote environmental education and raise awareness of local biodiversity. These centers will provide attractive exhibitions and educational opportunities for students, tourists and the wider community. The project also includes a comprehensive audit of ecosystems in Uzhansky and Magura National Parks, leading to the development of a strategy for their protection. Additionally, educational programmes for schools in the border regions will promote a deeper understanding of nature conservation issues and ensure the education of a new generation of citizens capable of a responsible approach to the environment.

Activities

1. Creating biodiversity educational paths: nature trail in Yaroslavl (PANS) and exhibition centers in Uzhansky National Park and Uzhhorod National University.

2. Creation of new ecological strategies, educational programs and methods of teaching environmental sciences in schools: eco-classes, educational programmes of environmental protection, training for teachers, workshops for stakeholders on nature protection and biodiversity, study visit to another national park in Poland, strategy of linking educational activities of both national parks, set of tourist packages in both parks.

3. Cross-border educational activities for children from Ukraine and Poland (workshops and trainings on biodiversity, summer eco-camps in national parks, training for students on biodiversity protection of forest areas and eco-picnic for students).

4. Promotional activities: kick-off meeting, cross-border forum for scientists and representatives of local government (UA), International Forum in the Carpathians (PL), organization of eco-picnics for children in Poland, photo album, final conference).