Ukrainian scouts' merit badge

Just like scouts around the world, troops in each age group in Plast earn merit badges by exploring new skills — hiking, cooking, photography, journalism, first aid, and many more.

In Ukraine we call these badges “vmilosti”, which simply means skills.

But what makes them especially exciting for our scouts is how closely they connect to the world around them.

Some badges introduce scouts to Ukrainian traditions and crafts — like making traditional beadwork, or learning spring folk dances called hahilky or folk songs.

Others focus on nature and exploration — scouts might learn tracking animal footprints, studying local wildlife, or exploring the history of their region.

And of course, many badges develop classic scouting skills — pioneering, camping, first aid, and many more.

And the best part?

These badges are always hands-on.

Scouts don’t just read about a skill — they actually do it.

That’s one of the reasons young people love earning them:

they can choose skills that match their interests

every badge marks a real achievement

and sometimes a new hobby — or even a future career — begins there.

So, merit badges are about discovering what you’re capable of!