Last week, a group of young scientists from Greece, Albania, and North Macedonia had the opportunity to get closely acquainted with the nature of one of Europe’s most unique transboundary regions. As part of our Transboundary Summer School, organized by the Society for the Protection of Prespa (SPP), in cooperation with PrespaNet network partner organizations PPNEA and MES, the students participated in various field-based and interactive sessions through which they learned about the conservation of wetlands in the Prespa region up close.

They had the chance to learn about and experience methods for monitoring populations of fish, waterbirds, snakes, bats and wetland habitats in Prespa, as well as the challenges in conserving and managing wetlands in a transboundary context. In addition to traditional scientific methods, emphasis was placed on the use of modern technology in documenting and mapping littoral habitats and the species that populate them. At the same time, the importance of communication in our work was highlighted, with sessions dedicated to how science can be translated in a way that allows local communities, stakeholders, and individuals to emotionally connect and actively engage in nature protection.

This Summer School helped participants develop skills, raise their environmental awareness, and build friendships based on shared values. A big thank you to all the lecturers, partners, locals, and of course the young scientists who brought energy, curiosity, and commitment to the Summer School.

Together, we learned that protecting Prespa relies on cooperation that goes beyond borders!