Youth School in the Carpathians - Saving vulnerable species during wartime

Building on the success of previous initiatives, this project is dedicated to promoting biodiversity conservation and environmental education with a specific focus on protecting bats and reptiles. By expanding eco-educational campaigns and fostering community engagement, the initiative aims to enhance scientific understanding and cultivate a culture of conservation through interdisciplinary approaches and innovative outreach strategies.

• Scientific Research & Monitoring

Conduct comprehensive monitoring and research on bat and reptile populations in their natural habitats, including church towers, caves, and surrounding environments.

Organize field studies and expeditions to collect data on species behavior, distribution, and ecological significance, involving young participants to provide hands-on learning experiences.

• Conservation & Rehabilitation

Establish a Bat Rehabilitation Center equipped with specialized facilities to provide care and medical treatment for injured bats, ensuring their rehabilitation and successful release into the wild.

• Education & Awareness

Design and execute a comprehensive public relations campaign to debunk myths and misconceptions about bats and reptiles, highlighting their ecological roles and the importance of their protection.

Develop and distribute educational materials, including interactive games, informational posters, and handouts for churches, schools, and community centers.

Organize eco-educational events for children and youth to inspire a sense of responsibility for bat conservation.

Launch a PR campaign on social media to raise awareness and promote the protection of reptiles.

• Community Engagement & Events

Host the "International Night of Bats" at Uzhhorod Castle, an interactive event aimed at celebrating biodiversity and increasing public awareness.

Organize research field expeditions for youth to actively participate in conservation studies.

Arrange a children’s creative contest focused on reptile protection to encourage artistic expression and learning.

• Interactive Learning & Resources

Develop and distribute an informative poster highlighting key facts about local reptile species, their habitats, and conservation status.

Create and showcase a mobile exhibition on reptile protection to reach diverse audiences.

Design and test an educational board game, “Food Chains,” to engage children in understanding ecological relationships.

Prepare and share interactive learning handouts, including coloring sheets, riddles, and educational tasks to be used in classrooms and community workshops.