Eighth Regional Science Fair – An Event That Surpassed the Boundaries of Creativity and Science in Primary Education

Today, in the renovated ceremonial hall of “Dimitar Miladinov” Elementary School in Skopje, the eighth and largest Regional Science Fair took place—an event that brings together schools, socially responsible organizations, and companies to inspire the next generation of scientists and researchers. Coinciding with the reopening of the renovated hall, the event was an ideal opportunity to showcase the school’s efforts in advancing science and education.

The event gathered over 300 participants—students, teachers, mentors, and partners—who enjoyed a day full of experiments, innovations, and scientific wonders. All were united around a single mission: to make science lively, accessible, and fun!

The fair was officially opened by the school principal, Božo Bubalo, who emphasized that this event represents an important step toward creating a scientific atmosphere in the school and proudly presented “Dimitar Miladinov” as a hub of youthful energy and innovation.

Supporting science in education is not just a wish—it is a strategic direction that shapes the future development of our society. The Ministry of Education and Science continues to invest in modernizing teaching, improving infrastructure, and creating new opportunities for students and teachers to grow through science and innovation. The presence of Svetlana Pineva, State Advisor for Science at the Ministry, confirmed this commitment and was a great honor for all of us at this important event.

The next speaker was Milka Trimchevska, Director of the Bureau for Development of Education, who works daily to ensure quality, modern, and applicable education. She highlighted the partnerships implemented with Macedonia2025under the “Science and Me” project and emphasized the importance of supporting science teachers, who play a crucial role in nurturing the scientists of the future.

Without the “Science and Me” project, supported by Johnson Matti’s Community Impact Program and implemented by Macedonia2025, such an event and dedication would not have been possible. Over the past two years, approximately 100 young and motivated teachers in natural sciences, physics, chemistry, and biology have been trained through this project.

During her speech, Nikica Mojsoska Blazevski, Executive Director of Macedonia2025, highlighted the importance of the initiative and the energy behind it. The Community Impact Program combines the expertise and resources of Johnson Matti with the needs of the local community, creating a positive influence on young people and their educational ambitions. This project aligns with their strategy to support scientific and educational initiatives in Macedonia and beyond, while also marking the start of the third cycle of implementation by Macedonia2025.

Zvonko Tanev, Quality Manager at Johnson Matti, shared his experience as part of a company that applies science in the production process, providing valuable examples of how science is used to solve real-world problems.

At this Regional Science Fair, around 100 student presenters from 11 primary schools shared their scientific projects, models, and experiments in subjects such as natural sciences, physics, chemistry, biology, and geography—inspiring their peers with knowledge and creativity. Participating schools included:

• “Blaze Koneski” Elementary School, Veles – Mentor: Ruzica Petrushevska-Nikolovska

• “Goce Delchev” Elementary School, Tetovo – Mentor: Aleksandra Ristoska

• “Josip Broz Tito” Elementary School, Valandovo – Mentors: Elena Andonova and Gabriela Ashikova

• “7 Marsi” Elementary School, Chelpek – Mentors: Ajtene Ademi and Merita Emini

• “Goce Delchev” Elementary School, Gradsko – Mentor: Ljupka Petrova

• “Semshevo” Elementary School, Semshevo & “Simche Nastevski” Elementary School, Vratnica (Jegunovce) – Mentor: Shadije Fetai

• “Goce Delchev” Elementary School, Vasilevo – Mentor: Tome Kitanovski

• “Dimitar Makedonski” Elementary School, Skopje Aerodrom – Mentor: Dijana Ivanovska

• “Anton Zako Chajupi” Elementary School, Otlja (Lipkovo) – Mentor: Azimene Fetai

In conclusion, the “Science and Me” Fair once again confirmed that it is a key platform for fostering a love of science and innovation, continuing to inspire and motivate future generations of scientists and researchers.

The “Science and Me” project, supported by Johnson Matti – Community Support Program, has so far inspired over 1,500 students and trained more than 100 teachers, aiming to bring science closer to every child in Macedonia.

Follow the photo gallery of the day’s most impressive moments—and let yourself be inspired!