Enhancing Students’ Awareness of Plants at the Botanical Garden of Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice

Since 2010, the Botanical Garden of Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice has been organizing the annual Botanikiáda competition for 5th-grade pupils and their teachers from schools in the Košice and Prešov self- governing regions. The event aims to stimulate interest in botany, broaden knowledge about plant biodiversity, and strengthen environmental awareness through direct contact with nature. The program connects biology with practical experience while fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and a positive attitude towards nature conservation. Students become familiar with trees, native meadow, aquatic and wetland plants, as well as lesser-known tropical and subtropical species. This year’s theme focused on useful plants under the title "Green Helpers". After the activities, students completed an “Exit Ticket” where they wrote down three new things they learned, two interesting facts and one question they still have. The evaluation confirmed the benefits of experiential learning, revealed certain risks, and led to recommendations for future editions. A parallel program for biology teachers included scientific updates, methodological innovations, and insights into the botanical garden’s current work. Since its beginning, Botanikiáda has involved 1,513 teachers and 2,914 pupils, significantly contributing to environmental education and children’s relationship with the plant world.