Within the scope of STARBIOS2, the Plant Biotechnology Information Centre at Agrobioinstitute in Sofia, Bulgaria organised the third national annual essay contest for young people. This year 234 students from Bulgarian secondary schools, high schools and universities answered the call. The 2020 edition topic was “Climate is changing! And me?”. Essays from 53 Bulgarian towns were submitted and Bulgarians studying in Italy, Spain, Cyprus and the Netherlands also participated and elaborated their thoughts on climate change.
“What was most interesting was the students’ personal attitude to the problem. They showed readiness and enthusiasm not only to ‘think globally’ but to ‘act locally’ to improve the environment. Starting in their own homes, backyards, schools, towns, and counties. And more importantly, doing their best to convince their families and friends to join them in their efforts” says Dimitar Dijilanov, professor at Agrobioinstitute and lead of PBIC and the STARBIOS2 work in Bulgaria.
The winner essays are already available for download. Unfortunately, the official award ceremony will have to be postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak. The Bulgarians are currently in quarantine. But soon, the winners will be able to receive their proper congratulations and awards.
“We are grateful to all students who submitted their essays, to their teachers, tutors and parents for this record breaking number of essays and their positive response,” says Dimitar Dijilanov.
