Green Communities in Action: Environmental Festivals Reach 2,000 Students in Volyn

In May 2026, ALPS Resilience Ukraine partnered with local NGO Brainstorm, with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Kyiv, to deliver two large-scale environmental festivals for schoolchildren in Ukraine’s Volyn region. Held in Kamin-Kashyrskyi on 18 May and in Kovel on 22 May, the events formed part of the wider “Green Communities: Nature, Children, Community” initiative and brought together around 2,000 students to explore environmental science, robotics and sustainable living through hands-on, interactive learning.

Two festivals, one mission. The first festival took place on 18 May at Lyceum No. 2 in Kamin-Kashyrskyi, followed on 22 May by a second event at Lyceum No. 1 in Kovel. Students came from schools in Kovel, Kamin-Kashyrskyi and the surrounding communities. In 2026 alone the initiative is reaching 15 communities across Volyn, with a further 15 planned for 2027.

What students experienced. Across more than 15 interactive stations, students conducted scientific experiments, explored local biodiversity and took part in educational workshops. They learned how robotics can help solve environmental problems, and picked up practical skills in waste sorting and the responsible use of water and other natural resources. The Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, Lutsk National Technical University, the Volyn Regional Small Academy of Sciences, Lutsk Scientific Park and the Museum of Science and Technology and Industrial Design of the Korsak Family each ran demonstration and research zones.

ALPS Resilience’s role. ALPS Resilience Ukraine led the on-the-ground delivery of both festivals. The team supplied and erected event tents and sound equipment, transported the project team, exhibitor representatives and students safely and on time, arranged catering for staff and exhibitors, and pre-stocked every station with consumables. ALPS also managed the design and printing of the festivals’ visual identity: a photo zone, themed banners, flowering-paper flyers and sticker packs for participants.

A growing partnership. The festivals were delivered by NGO Brainstorm in partnership with ALPS Resilience Ukraine, with support from the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia in Kyiv. By connecting schools directly with universities, research institutions and local scientific clubs, the events strengthened lasting links between education, science and community life across Volyn.

Looking ahead. Planned next steps include water-quality training and ecological expeditions over summer 2026, schools receiving their own water-testing equipment, and the development of an environmental board game and a digital platform for students to log their own nature observations. The project is set to expand from 15 to 30 participating communities across Volyn by 2027.