Scholar Success Story: Jovan Najdanovski - Innovation, Leadership, and Excellence in STEM

Through the Support Fund for Talented High School Students “Talents Today – Leaders Tomorrow,” Macedonia2025 supports young individuals who demonstrate exceptional potential, leadership, and dedication to personal and academic growth.

One of these inspiring scholars is Jovan Najdanovski, a senior student at SOTU “Gjorgji Naumov” in Bitola, specializing as an Electrical Technician for Computer Technology and Automation. With a strong passion for mathematics, programming, and technology, Jovan has built an impressive portfolio of achievements that combine academic excellence, innovation, entrepreneurship, and social engagement.

Passion for Mathematics, Programming, and Technology

Jovan’s interest in mathematics and programming began in primary school, where he quickly distinguished himself through his dedication and strong analytical thinking. Today, he is recognized as one of the most accomplished students of his generation, participating in numerous national and regional competitions, STEM trainings, and international projects.

Among his most notable achievements are:

• First Place – Literary Essay Competition organized by the National Bank and Ministry of Finance for World Savings Day

• GaleTeknii Award in honor of Prof. Kiro Galevski for excellence in mathematics

• Third Place – Regional Mathematics Competition

• Participation in the National Mathematics Competition and Regional Informatics Competition

• Recognition as “Student of the Generation” at his high school

Innovation Through Entrepreneurship

Jovan’s entrepreneurial mindset came to life through the student company DoneRight, developed within the Junior Achievement Macedonia program. Together with his team, he worked on an innovative web-platform idea that earned them a second Place at the National Student Company Competition. The project stood out for its professionalism, creativity, and practical business approach, demonstrating Jovan’s ability to combine technical knowledge with innovation and teamwork. Additionally, Jovan successfully completed the ESP (Entrepreneurial Skills Pass) Certification, confirming his knowledge in entrepreneurship, economics, management, and business planning.

International Experience and Youth Leadership

Throughout the year, Jovan actively participated in multiple international youth exchanges and educational initiatives. As part of the Erasmus+ Project “MOVIEUMAKERS” in Varna, Bulgaria, he collaborated with participants from several European countries on digital storytelling, filmmaking, and discussions around European values and youth participation in society. Later, he also participated in the Erasmus+ youth exchange: “Future in Our Hands” – Ankara, Turkey. The project focused on democracy, artificial intelligence, healthy lifestyles, and active citizenship. During the event, Jovan participated in workshops, debates, and AI-related activities, where he even won a special Artificial Intelligence Quiz Competition, earning an additional certificate for his achievement.

Continuous Learning and Technical Development

Jovan consistently invests in expanding his technical and professional skills. Among the programs and trainings, he completed are:

• Python + AI Programming Course at SEMOS Education, where he developed a Full Stack application as a final project

• Software Development Life Cycle Training organized by IWConnect and American Corner Bitola

• German Language Courses – Levels B1.1 and B1.2

• Participation in “Dabar 2025” International Informatics Competition

These experiences further strengthened his expertise in programming, software development, logical thinking, and digital technologies.

Mathematics as a Foundation for Excellence

Mathematics remains one of Jovan’s strongest passions and academic focuses. During the academic year, he participated in:

📍 Municipal Mathematics Competition

📍 Regional Mathematics Competition – winning Third Place

📍 State Mathematics Competition organized by the Union of Mathematicians of Macedonia

He was also recognized as a young mathematical talent during the celebration of Pi Day at the Technical Faculty in Bitola, receiving special recognition for his achievements and dedication to mathematics.

Leadership, Social Responsibility, and Personal Growth

Beyond STEM, Jovan is actively involved in initiatives promoting youth participation and social responsibility. As a Student Ombudsman and member of the School Board, he organized workshops focused on children’s rights and student responsibilities for younger students at his school. He also participated in environmental and civic initiatives, including:

• “Prespa Through the Eyes of Youth” Environmental Workshop

• National Holocaust remembrance project: “The Holocaust Through Children’s Eyes”

• Literary and poetry competitions promoting social awareness and non-violence

Mentorship and Vision for the Future

Through the MK2025 Mentor Platform, Jovan worked with mentors Dragan Shahpaski and Tanja Milishkovikj Mitikj, focusing on leadership, career planning, decision-making, and personal development. The mentorship sessions helped him strengthen his confidence, define clearer professional goals, and further develop the mindset needed for future academic and professional success.

“Being part of the ‘Talents Today - Leaders Tomorrow’ program encouraged me to pursue my academic, entrepreneurial, and personal goals with greater confidence. The scholarship and mentorship support helped me develop a broader perspective on leadership, responsibility, and future opportunities. Through this experience, I learned that success is not measured only by achievements, but also by the positive impact we create for others. I am grateful to Macedonia2025 for investing in young people and their potential.” Stressed Jovan.

Looking Toward the Future

Looking toward the future, Jovan remains focused on combining his strengths in mathematics, programming, automation, and innovation. His goal is to continue developing in the fields of computer science, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship, while using the knowledge and experience gained through competitions, trainings, international exchanges, and mentorship to create meaningful solutions. With his discipline, curiosity, and strong motivation for continuous learning, Jovan is building a clear path toward becoming a future engineer and innovator who can contribute to his community and beyond.

Jovan’s story is a powerful example of how talent, discipline, and curiosity can shape the leaders and innovators of tomorrow.