The EFFUSE-win project (HUSKROUA/23/RS/1.2/027) is strengthening environmental awareness and scientific skills among young people in the Slovak–Ukrainian border region by bringing education directly into nature. Implemented by Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice together with partners from Ukraine, the project connects schools, universities and experts to inspire the next generation of environmental scientists.
Learning science in real natural settings
Launched in April 2025, the project focuses on hands-on education in the Latorica River Basin and surrounding natural areas. Since its start, 16 activities have already been implemented, including school workshops, field trips and expert-led excursions, reaching more than 640 participants.
Through interactive sessions at elementary and secondary schools, pupils explored biodiversity topics such as reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and microorganisms. Learning was based on direct observation, live demonstrations and simple scientific methods, helping participants better understand ecosystems and the importance of nature protection.
From classrooms to cross-border laboratories
In addition to school-based activities, the project supports the development of scientific thinking and laboratory skills at university level. Activities at Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice provided students with practical experience, while cross-border expert field trips with Ukrainian partners strengthened cooperation in environmental education and conservation.
Public outreach events, including European Researchers’ Night, further expanded the project’s visibility and engagement with the wider community.
Growing interest and lasting impact
Feedback from schools, teachers and participants has been overwhelmingly positive. The project team reports increasing interest from schools across the border region, with new requests for activities arriving regularly — a clear sign of the project’s relevance and impact.
By combining outdoor education, scientific practice and cross-border cooperation, EFFUSE-win is helping young people develop knowledge, curiosity and responsibility towards their natural environment — laying foundations for long-term environmental protection.
Why it matters:
EFFUSE-win shows how learning in nature can spark scientific curiosity, strengthen environmental responsibility and build lasting cross-border cooperation.
More about the project on the Programme website:
https://next.huskroua-cbc.eu/project-map/pavol-jozef-safarik-university-in-kosice/
