As part of the “Friends of Bukovel” project, the Sustainable Development Office conducts exclusive interviews with the resort’s partners.
Today we visited the Science Park and spoke with its head, Oleksandra Pancheshenko, about how the idea of creating such a place came about, what can be seen inside, and most importantly – whether the Science Park is interesting not only for children but also for adults.
— Oleksandra, welcome! How did the idea of Science Park Bukovel creation come about?
— Bukovel is a family resort. There are entertainment options for every taste, but we felt the need to create a park of 'smart' indoor entertainment, because the weather in the mountains is constantly changing. Why choosing a scientific context? Because it is interesting for both adults and children. It is a universe that fascinates and develops, allowing one to experiment and make their own conclusions. Also, games, competitions, and experiences are included that visitors want to remember and capture in photos and videos.
— What age group is the Science Park designed for?
— We collected the world’s best-selling puzzles and installations, which allow people to have fun, play, and explore at any age and provide unforgettable impressions for guests. This space unites all age categories because everyone can find something for themselves. Remember how everyone had their favorite subject at school? But we also included entertainment for those who are just beginning to explore the world – a musical piano, a ball labyrinth, soap bubbles, as well as for those who want to experience open space in VR glasses or visit an immersive room – it is a different whirlwind of sensations, but in both cases, new neural connections are formed.
— Can it be said that the Science Park is the largest of its kind in the region? What about Ukraine?
— In the Carpathians, we are unique in this format, and as for Ukraine – we are one of the scientific-entertainment centers with a greater emphasis specifically on entertainment.
— Why is it important to present scientific information to children in this format, where everything can be touched, pulled, and interacted with?
— This is an important issue of combining theoretical information, of which there is a lot now, with practical research. Moreover, when science evokes fascination and joy rather than fear that it is something incomprehensible, a positive experience is formed – learning becomes easy and interesting.
— Could you tell us if any special preparation is needed for children or parents before visiting the Science Park? For example, basic knowledge of physics or chemistry?
— In the Science Park, even adults with higher education always learn something new because one cannot be an expert in all fields. This space was created to unite all participants of the educational-entertainment process in a game and leave a taste of satisfaction from new experiences. The educational part is managed by a team of guides who accompany guests on all three floors, as well as during science shows.
— Tell us about the Science Park from the first to the third floor. What interesting things can be seen?
— The first impression is always created by the largest Aqua Zone in Ukraine, where you can build a dam, catch a fish, launch your own hydroelectric station, be inside a soap bubble, and create a cloud. You can also compete in reaction speed, take funny photos in a booth, and enjoy something tasty.
The second floor is the largest space, divided into themed zones: “Humanity's Great Inventions,” “Acoustics,” “Natural Phenomena,” “Anatomy,” “Creativity and Logic Zone,” “Mirror Illusions,” and “Space.”
There is also an improvized laby for chemistry experiments and a VR shuttle with various space walks for two.
The highlights of our park are presented on the third floor. It includes the stage for the Tesla Electric Show, an immersive experience room, a construction area with giant Lego and excavators, as well as ski VR and a submarine with VR-based underwater experiences.
— What are your plans for the development of the Science Park?
— Currently, we are setting up a summer terrace with games and a relaxation area with a mountain view. The park’s collection will soon be expanded: the “Weather Forecast” exhibit is expected to open, where visitors can try themselves as TV presenters and play with augmented reality. Also, the Science Park has become an interesting novelty for many camps and travel agencies. We actively collaborate and establish friendly connections with organizations that create active and useful leisure for all age categories.
— In the Science Park, one can also see much that relates to sustainable development, for example, how solar panels work or a model of a working hydroelectric station. Why is this important?
— This is one of the topics that resonates with the mission of the Science Park – to grow a smart and conscious nation, analyzing the causes and consequences of actions. Currently, we are developing an exhibit that will show practical waste sorting.
— And finally. Why is cooperation with the Bukovel Sustainable Development Office useful?
— Bukovel resort is developing dynamically. Now it is a place where people rest year-round, so the Sustainable Development Office is a team responsible for strategic decisions. We are pleased to implement ideas for tourism development together.
Currently, we are working on joint installations for keeping the forest clean and an exhibit providing visitors with information about how long uncollected waste decomposes in the environment. All these are important steps for a sustainable future!
Recently, the Science Park also joined the Bukovel Sustainable Development Office initiative “Discount for Your Cup.” Now every visitor who comes to the Science Park with their own cup receives a 5 UAH discount on any hot drink.