At the beginning of September, a group of young people from Bulgaria participated in an international youth exchange in Slovakia as part of the Erasmus+ program. The project, titled “Green Bytes,” took place from September 1st to 9th, 2025, and was organized near the picturesque lake by the town of Kaluža. Thirty participants attended – five from each country: Bulgaria, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Hungary.

The main goal of the exchange was to encourage young people to develop awareness of environmental issues while improving their digital skills. Participants worked on topics related to the ecological footprint and sustainable development, using digital tools for analysis, content creation, and sharing their ideas.

Through non-formal education, the program included various interactive activities and workshops. The youth had the opportunity to develop their own initiatives focused on nature conservation and discuss how technology could be an ally in this cause.

One of the most interesting activities was a day trip to the second-largest city in Slovakia, Košice. There, participants conducted a survey among local residents to learn more about their attitudes towards environmental challenges and daily habits. This not only enriched the knowledge of the youth but also introduced them to Slovak culture.

The location of the event – the lake in Kaluža – also contributed to the inspiring atmosphere. Amid nature, participants were able to combine learning with outdoor experiences that emphasized the connection between humans and nature.

Cultural exchange was an important part of the project. During intercultural evenings, the youth presented their countries. The Bulgarian team stood out with traditional folk dances and cuisine.

The participation of our youth in “Green Bytes” demonstrated activity, responsibility, and a desire for development, leaving a lasting positive impression on both the organizers and other international partners.