Matej Naunov – A High School Student from Kočani Driving the STEM Spirit Forward

Matej Naunov, a 17-year-old student from Kočani, is a scholarship recipient from the 2024/2025 generation under the “Talents Today – Leaders Tomorrow” Fund for Talented High School Students. He is a third-year student at Gošo Vikentiev High School, in the field of Computer Technology and Automation, where his passion for the sciences, robotics, and programming turns into concrete projects with societal impact.

From Classroom to Real Community Change

As part of the LEAD program, Matej served as team leader on a project to create a website for the association of people with disabilities “Mobility Kočani.” His team ranked among the top 5 out of 36 and successfully launched the website mobilnostkocani.mk, with support from teachers, local authorities, and representatives of the Norwegian Embassy.

Practical Knowledge, Tangible Results

Through the “Learning through Work at the Employer” course, Matej completed an internship at the IT company Vista Point. There, he participated in bug fixes and software development using Node.js and TypeScript, as well as creative tasks such as creating a game similar to “Zborle” and a website on renewable energy sources.

Robotics and Leadership

After six years of active participation in the First Lego League, this year Matej took on the challenge as a mentor for the Robo Mosquitos team, one of the most successful teams in North Macedonia. Although the team did not qualify for the world championship, the competition provided valuable experience, leadership skills, and a sense of community.

International Experience – Finland and Erasmus+

In March 2025, Matej participated in the Erasmus+ project Sustainable Alternatives Future Essentials in Pedersöre, Finland. He delivered lectures on web programming, led workshops, and collaborated on creating educational digital content—combining technology, education, and creativity.

Mentorship That Inspires

Through the MK2025 program, Matej received a mentor with whom he holds regular meetings—both via Zoom and in person. Discussions cover topics from personal development and goal-setting to business and life decisions. The meetings provided guidance, inspiration, and motivation for future challenges. Here is what Matej says: “We discussed questions related to my personal development—what areas I should focus on more, how to make the most of my time while still a student, and which skills will benefit me in the future, whether I go on to study or start my own business. Meetings with him always go by quickly because they are filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and useful guidance. He often shared real examples from his experience—how he reacted in certain life situations, decisions he made, lessons learned from mistakes, and the principles he follows in life and work.”

Matej Naunov represents a young person who not only learns—but also creates, transforms, and leads. Through his example, he inspires generations of young people to choose science, technology, and humanity as a path toward a better tomorrow.