Bioeconomy, schools and gardens of Wisdom, Sustainability, Knowledge, Action, Innovation and Creation for our karst and sea
Primary School Ivana Gorana Kovačića, Cista Velika ·Croatia
About this project
<p>The project “BioMOZAIK Krš i more“ includes primary schools in the underdeveloped area of Split-Dalmatia County, whose teachers and students show strong interest, but lack of resources for the implementation of programmes in the field of STEM, ICT and entrepreneurship in the sectors of bioeconomy, biotechnology, green and blue economy/innovation. The purpose of the project is to establish a sustainable micro-regional system of excellence in this area, while the main goal of the project is the development of excellence in primary education in STEM, ICT, entrepreneurship and active citizenship with an emphasis on bioeconomy and biotechnology, which are a strategically interesting area for Split-Dalmatia County, situated on the Croatian costline. The project plans to implement STEM and ICT programmes including STEM TechLab (in the field of ICT, robotics and technology), STEM Aqualab (in the field biology and ecology of sea, river and lake water), STEM BioLab (in the field of horticulture - plant cultivation in school gardens and parks, education on herbal medicine), STEM AeroLab (in the filed of the utilization of smart aircrafts in agriculture and ecology). The project shall also integrate collaborative activities with school cooperatives and integrate socially engaged learning, creating a sinergy of STEM, entrepreneurship and active citizenship education. Taregted activities will be implemented for talented students, as well as students with special needs. The overall aim of the project is to develop a socially and economically stimulating, inclusive and sustainable education enviorment tailored to the needs of the local community. </p>
Bilateral cooperation results
The bilateral collaboration with International Development Norway (IDN) brought exceptional results to the project. This partnership was established through joint activities aimed at enhancing STEM education and sharing best practices between Croatia and Norway. Bilateral partner IDN was a part of an international online conference, where Norwegian experts presented innovative methods in STEM education. Additionally, IDN organized a study visit to Trondheim, providing participants with valuable insights into the Norwegian education system and its approaches to STEM. IDN also supported the development of long-term strategies for partner schools and contributed to the design and evaluation of teacher training programs. Key outcomes of the bilateral collaboration include: • Knowledge transfer: Teachers had the opportunity to learn about Norwegian methods for teaching STEM and implement them in their schools. • Improved educational programs: With IDN’s support, programs integrating STEM with sustainable development and bioeconomy were developed. • Strengthened connections: Norwegian partners facilitated collaboration between schools and local communities, increasing the project’s visibility and impact. • Development of plans: Strategies and action plans for further development of STEM programs were created and will be applied beyond the project’s completion. Plans for continued bilateral collaboration: IDN has expressed interest in continuing the partnership through future projects focused on sustainable development and education. There is also an agreement to jointly apply for EU-funded projects to sustain the exchange of knowledge and experiences, ensuring long-term benefits for schools and communities involved in the project. The collaboration with IDN not only enabled the successful realization of the project’s goals but also significantly enhanced its overall value and potential for future sustainability.
Project partners
- International Development Norway AS Donor project partner· Norway
- Primary School Kamešnica Project partner· Croatia
- Primary School Milana Begovića Project partner· Croatia
- Primary School Trilj Project partner· Croatia
- Primary School "Josip Vergilij Perić" Project partner· Croatia
- Primary School Runović Project partner· Croatia
- Primary School Dr. Fra Karlo Balić Project partner· Croatia
- Primary School Ivana Mažuranića Obrovac Sinjski Project partner· Croatia
- Primary School Tin Ujević Project partner· Croatia
- Cluster for Eco-Social Innovation and Development CEDRA Project partner· Croatia