“Science and Me”: Science Never Stops – Second Training, New Energy!

On November 28, 2025, the second full-day training within the “Science and Me” project took place at “Aleksandar Makedonski” Elementary School in Skopje.

The training brought together 21 science teachers from primary schools across Macedonia, who participated in a dynamic and inspiring workshop dedicated to improving teaching through modern, interactive, and inquiry-based approaches. A new feature of this year’s project was the inclusion of mentoring teachers for general science classes in grades 1–5, alongside science teacher interns and subject mentors in biology, chemistry, and physics.

The event began with opening remarks from the school principal Maja Bukleska, the Macedonia2025 representative Nena Manchev, and Ivanka Mijic from the Bureau for Development of Education, highlighting the importance of continuous professional development for teachers as a key factor in improving education quality and fostering curiosity in students.

The program included four educational sessions led by experts from the academic and professional community. Discussions covered topics such as classroom motivation and management, learning through research and experiments in physics, experiential learning through biology and climate change topics, inventiveness in chemistry teaching, and effective lesson planning. Activities were practical, applicable, and focused on developing students’ critical thinking and active engagement.

Special thanks to:

• Johnson Matti – for visionary support through the “Science and Me” program

• Ministry of Education and Science and the Bureau for Development of Education – for professional engagement and expert support

• Trimax and Literatura.mk – for active involvement and support of innovative teaching

• “Aleksandar Makedonski” Elementary School, Aerodrom, Skopje – for warm hospitality and organizational support

Upcoming activities within the “Science and Me” project:

a) In spring 2026, regional science fairs will be held, where students, together with our trained teachers, will present their own scientific projects.

b) A study visit to the Johnson Matti factory in Skopje, giving students and teachers an opportunity to explore scientific and technological processes in the industry.

c) Donation of 20 science teaching kits to primary schools nationwide, as additional motivation and support for hands-on teaching.

d) Introduction of structured mentoring collaboration among teachers, aiming to create a space for long-term knowledge sharing, experience exchange, and support in teaching practice—through a network of professional relationships between experienced and younger colleagues.

The “Science and Me” project continues to strengthen the role of teachers as agents of change and as sources of inspiration for the next generation of young scientists.