The initiative was implemented by Sofia Mickoska and Dimitar Gogu, with support from mentor Mila Karadafova Angelovska. Students, teachers, and volunteers from EKE Bitola participated in the activities, jointly contributing to a cleaner and better-organized environment in the school and its surroundings.

What Was Done?

The activity started with a short educational presentation on the importance of environmental protection and maintaining a clean environment. Students discussed the negative consequences of littering and the responsibilities of individuals, institutions, municipalities, and authorities in environmental protection.

Special emphasis was placed on the role of young people as active and responsible members of the community.

After the educational part, a practical cleaning action followed. Students received a demonstration on the safe use of mechanical litter pickers, after which they were given litter pickers and trash bags. They were divided into small groups of two to three participants and began cleaning the school yard and surrounding areas.

In just 20 minutes, 25 trash bags of 30 liters each were collected, significantly improving the cleanliness and appearance of the space. Students showed great interest and enthusiasm, and the mechanical pickers further motivated their participation.

After the action, participants were provided refreshments, and the mechanical pickers were left in the school to allow students and teachers to continue similar activities in the future.

Results and Impact

Through this initiative:

- 33 participants were directly involved (25 students aged 11–14, 4 teachers, and 4 volunteers from EKE Bitola);

- the school yard and surrounding area were cleaned, collecting 25 trash bags;

- students’ awareness of the importance of environmental protection increased;

- young people gained practical experience in actively improving the local community;

- a specific environmental issue was identified and reported via the platform zzz.org.mk, introducing students to mechanisms of civic participation and public problem reporting.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

During implementation, there were minor logistical adjustments related to location and students’ ages, which were successfully overcome. The activity showed that children are particularly motivated when they have the opportunity to engage directly in practical activities and when appropriate tools are provided. It was also confirmed that such actions have the greatest impact when adapted to the interests and real conditions of participants.

This initiative demonstrates that when young people are given space, support, and knowledge, they can become true drivers of positive change in their community. 🌱

The activity is part of the project “ZZZ – Joint Green Advocacy for Environmental Protection”, funded by the Embassy of Switzerland in North Macedonia through the Civica Mobilitas program, and implemented by the Center for Youth Activism KRIK, Center for Social Initiatives Nadez, and Association of Social Workers of Macedonia – ZSRM.

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