CLOSING THE KNOWLEDGE GAP: EXPLORING GENERATION Z CZECH UNIVERSITY STUDENTS' AWARENESS AND PERCEPTIONS OF NANOTECHNOLOGY

Nanotechnology is increasingly becoming a part of everyday life. Despite this growing integration, public awareness of nanotechnology's functionality, benefits, and potential risks remains limited. This is particularly true for Generation Z, the first digitally native generation, which is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of technology and its applications. Given their position as future leaders and consumers, it is important to understand how Generation Z, specifically university students, perceives and understands nanotechnology. The primary aim of this study was to assess the current level of knowledge about nanotechnology among the Czech public, with a specific focus on Generation Z university students. This focus on Generation Z is particularly important as their views on new technologies, including nanotechnology, will likely shape public discourse and innovation trends in the coming decades. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted using the Nano-Knowledge Instrument and a Sociodemographic questionnaire. The research sample consisted of 107 Generation Z university students aged 19-26, from diverse fields of study. The findings revealed knowledge gaps regarding the benefits and applications of nanomaterials. These results highlight the necessity for targeted educational initiatives to address these gaps, particularly within Generation Z, to ensure informed public engagement. Enhancing awareness among younger generations is essential for fostering responsible innovation and creating a supportive environment for the development of NT policies.