Esta iniciativa constituiu mais um exemplo da importância da colaboração entre instituições de investigação e escolas na formação de cidadãos mais conscientes, curiosos e preparados para enfrentar os desafios ambientais do futuro.

As part of the international Fascination of Plants Day initiative, ISOPlexis – Centre for Sustainable Agriculture and Food Technology of the University of Madeira, in collaboration with the European project isUP-AgrO, organised an educational outreach activity on 9 June at Externato Princesa Dona Maria Amélia, involving 2nd-grade primary school students.

The initiative aimed to inspire scientific curiosity among young learners while raising awareness of the importance of plants, biodiversity, and sustainable agriculture through a dynamic, interactive, and hands-on learning experience.

The session began with a short theoretical component, tailored to the students' age group, introducing the main structures of plants—including roots, stems, leaves, flowers, and fruits—and explaining their functions. Students also explored the role of beneficial organisms, such as beneficial insects (e.g., ladybirds) and soil fungi, highlighting their importance in maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting sustainable agriculture.

The practical component was the highlight of the activity, providing students with an engaging, multisensory learning experience. Throughout the session, participants had the opportunity to:

Observe and explore different types of roots, with particular emphasis on yam; Investigate how water behaves on leaves and explore their different textures through touch; Observe and identify the different parts of flowers; Take part in a sensory seed identification game; Observe insects using magnifying glasses; View pollen grains and fungi under a microscope; Carry out seed sowing activities.

The sowing activities were carried out using 100% biodegradable containers produced from agricultural residues from the Autonomous Region of Madeira. These innovative containers demonstrated sustainable alternatives to plastic while promoting the principles of the circular bioeconomy and the valorisation of agricultural by-products.

Through this initiative, ISOPlexis and the isUP-AgrO project reinforced their commitment to promoting scientific and environmental literacy among younger generations, encouraging direct contact with nature and fostering an early interest in science.

Participation in Fascination of Plants Day is fully aligned with the mission of ISOPlexis and the isUP-AgrO project to bring scientific research closer to society by promoting knowledge on plant resources, biodiversity, innovation in sustainable agriculture, and the development of bio-based solutions that contribute to more resilient and sustainable food systems.

This activity once again highlighted the importance of collaboration between research institutions and schools in educating environmentally aware, curious, and scientifically engaged citizens who are better prepared to address future sustainability challenges.