Today marked one of the most inspiring moments of the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025, organized under the patronage of H.E. President Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova.
We were honored to welcome the President in person, who graciously awarded certificates to all 23 of our exceptional participants. She toured the student exhibition and was impressed by the creativity, teamwork, and innovation displayed through projects based on this year’s theme: “FIRST® LEGO® League – FIRST® DIVE℠: SUBMERGED℠”, focused on ocean exploration and sustainability.
President Siljanovska-Davkova emphasized that this camp is more than just about learning robotics:
“I see future scientists in these young minds—individuals who will make both their home countries and Macedonia proud.”
She highlighted the importance of reconnecting with one’s homeland, learning the Macedonian language, and forming global friendships that enrich both identity and character.
The day began with our signature morning gymnastics and a dynamic FIRST LEGO LEAGUE SIMULATION COMPETITION where teams worked on real-life challenges in areas like health, education, and the environment—designing solutions, prototyping ideas, and programming robots to execute tasks. In the afternoon, scholars got creative making “Friendship Medals” and enjoyed one last round of beach fun, before celebrating an unforgettable week at our farewell party.
What We Achieved Together
Throughout this remarkable week in Ohrid, 22 participants from Macedonia, the US, Canada, France, Slovenia, Croatia, and Malta embraced a unique blend of high-tech learning, cultural discovery, and friendship-building. We:
Strengthened core skills in robotics, coding, programming and design thinking
Practiced teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving through hands-on challenges
Explored global sustainability topics through the lens of ocean preservation
Reconnected with our Macedonian heritage, language, and traditions
Built lifelong friendships that cross borders and spark future collaborations
We’re incredibly proud of what our campers have achieved and even more excited to see how they’ll carry this experience forward in their personal journeys.
We began today with lots of smiles and songs as we celebrated two birthdays over breakfast—what better way to kick off a high-energy day at the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025!
The morning was filled with robotics action as scholars tackled the STEM Maze Challenge, using LEGO® robots and three game-based programming platforms. Working in teams, they built smart algorithms and tested event-based programs to guide their robots through a maze, learning how machines “think” and follow step-by-step instructions.
After some refreshing beach time and sports in the afternoon, we launched into the FIRST LEGO League Simulation Competition, where campers built, coded, and competed in timed missions. These sessions are part of our exciting theme for this year: FIRST® LEGO® League – FIRST® DIVE℠: SUBMERGED℠, which dives into ocean exploration and innovation.
Our participants are not just building robots – they’re researching ocean-related challenges and designing solutions for cleaner, healthier oceans. Through this work, they’re building leadership, teamwork, and perseverance – the hallmarks of tomorrow’s problem solvers and innovators.
We’re proud of our diverse group from the US, Canada, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Malta, and Macedonia, and grateful to all our program partners and supporters who make this journey possible: Young Engineers Skopje Macedonia, Robotics & Innovation Academy, STEM Robotika Kocani, Brainster, iSource, Ohrid Summer Festival, and supporters Triglav, Alkaloid, Kostal, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs and Fructal.
Today was a perfect blend of high-tech learning and cultural exploration at the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025!
We kicked off the day with some energizing morning gymnastics and a healthy breakfast to fuel our brains and bodies for a packed agenda.
In our Young Engineers session, the campers explored object detection and autonomous robot navigation using sensors. They programmed their Driving Base robots to react to lines and obstacles, practicing real-world logic and tech interaction.
Next up was an exciting session with Brainster, where our young innovators were introduced to Fable—a modular robot system! They learned about different types of sensors, programming concepts like loops and variables, and how these are used within the Fable ecosystem. In the afternoon, they worked on creative group projects using Design Thinking, bringing their ideas to life through prototyping and robot movement programming.
But it wasn’t all tech today! After a refreshing beach break , the group headed into the historic heart of Ohrid for a beautiful sunset walking tour. Starting from the Upper Gate and Ancient Theater, we strolled to Plaošnik, passed by St. Sophia, and ended in the charming city center, where we were captivated by Ohrid’s timeless beauty.
Another day full of teamwork, learning, and discovery—thanks to the incredible support of our program partners: Young Engineers, Brainster, STEM Robotika Kocani, iSource, Robotics & Innovation Academy, and Ohrid Summer Festival, and our amazing supporters: Triglav, Kostal, Alkaloid, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs, Fructal, Vincini, and ForestBar.
Stay tuned for more highlights from this inspiring journey!
Today was all about tech exploration, creativity, and connection at the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025!
We started strong with morning stretches by the lake, then headed off for an inspiring visit to Kostal Automobil Elektrik Plant in Ohrid. In this cutting-edge factory, our learners received an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how electronics power the automotive industry. A huge thank you to the Kostal team for opening their doors and minds to our young innovators!
The afternoon was packed with hands-on learning in robotics with Robotics & Innovation Academy (STEM Robotika Kocani). From dancing “Break Dance” robots, testing grabber designs in the “Super Cleanup” challenge to navigating robotic routes in “Driving Around,” our campers tackled real-world engineering concepts with creativity and teamwork.
Later, we connected with our cultural roots through a creative workshop on Macedonian traditional crafts, where participants handmade the iconic Traditional Macedonian earrings – Gulabici (Doves). It was a beautiful way to honor tradition while bonding through creativity.
Then came the time for beach games, music, and joy under the Ohrid sun. We wrapped up the evening with group entertainment, full of laughter and unforgettable moments.
And a big thank you to our supporters: Triglav osiguruvanje, Alkaloid, Kostal, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs, Fructal, Vincini, and ForestBar – for believing in this journey and making it happen!
Our first full day at the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025 was filled with hands-on discovery and high-tech teamwork!
After energizing morning stretches, campers jumped into their first robotics workshops led by our amazing partners from the @Robotics & Innovation Academy and STEM Robotika Kochani. Divided into teams, participants tackled exciting challenges:
Race Car – Exploring speed and force by building and testing their own LEGO® vehicles.
Spinner – A fun challenge to learn rotation, timing, and motion through coding.
Robotic Arm – Simulating real-world robotic movements for lifting and placing objects.
Each team showed impressive creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving throughout the day.
In the afternoon, we cooled off with a refreshing swim in Lake Ohrid, enjoying the beauty of our surroundings. We wrapped up the evening with group games, music, and entertainment, celebrating new friendships and another day of unforgettable memories.
A heartfelt thank you to our program partners – Young Engineers, Robotics & Innovation Academy, STEM Robotika Kocani, Brainster, iSource, and Ohrid Summer Festival, and to our generous supporters – Triglav osiguruvanje AD, Alkaloid, Kostal, IWConnect, A1 Makedonija, IT Labs, Fructal, Vincini, and ForestBar – for making this camp a reality.
The Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025 officially kicked off today with bright energy and a global spirit!
We welcomed 22 exceptional young participants – from Macedonia, the US, Canada, France, Croatia, Malta, and Slovenia – who gathered in Skopje to begin a week-long journey of learning, innovation, and cultural discovery.
After a beautiful drive to Hotel Aqualina by the shores of Lake Ohrid, our learners were greeted by the Macedonia2025 team (Nikica Mojsoska Blazevski, CEO and Nena Manchev, Head of Education and Leadership Programs) and introduced to the camp’s mission: to nurture digital skills, foster curiosity in STEM, and reconnect youth with Macedonian culture and values.
Our friends at iSource led the way with dynamic “Get to Know Each Other” activities, breaking the ice and setting the tone for a week of teamwork and creativity. The afternoon was all about fun in the sun, with games and beach time helping new friendships blossom across borders.
We wrapped up the day with a lakeside walk and dinner – recharged and ready for tomorrow’s deep dive into robotics and innovation!
Macedonia2025 is a non-profit, non-political organization dedicated to building strong partnerships and linkages worldwide and working together towards building a stronger nation. We represent a platform for all Macedonians around the globe to unite and join our efforts in supporting the economic and democratic growth of Macedonia.
Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp provides an opportunity for youths of Macedonian origin to further their knowledge in coding and robotics. Furthermore, participants will have the opportunity to get in touch with their roots and network with Macedonians from all over the world, in an inspiring environment by the Ohrid Lake.
Macedonia2025 announces an Open Call for Scholarships for the fifth Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp, which will take placein Ohrid, North Macedonia, on July 13-19, 2025.
Ohrid High-Tech Excellence Camp blends summer fun with an immersive STEM experience, bringing together young minds from around the world to develop coding, robotics, and problem-solving skills. Led by the Academy for Robotics and Innovation and STEM Robotika Kočani, in partnership with Young Engineers Skopje, the camp features globally recognized LEGO® Education Technology and Israeli-licensed STEM programs used in over 50 countries. Participants will engage in hands-on learning, programming FABLE components led by Brainster, and tackling real-world challenges inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year’s theme, FIRST® LEGO® League – FIRST® DIVE℠: SUBMERGED℠, focuses on ocean exploration. Teams will create innovative solutions for cleaner, healthier oceans while fostering leadership, teamwork, and perseverance—preparing them to be the next generation of problem solvers and innovators.
This Camp is also an opportunity to establish friendships, strengthen and build on native Macedonian culture, explore local nature and our cultural heritage, and experience Macedonian cuisine and specialties.
Key Benefits
Improve high-tech skills (coding, programming, and robotics);
Promote greater enrollment of youth, and especially young girls, from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics);
Establish connections and networks among young Macedonians living in Macedonia and young diaspora members, and support cross-cultural exchanges between them;
Establish and strengthen the connection of young diaspora members with their homeland, developing their sense of giving back to our homeland/community; and
Interact with some of the top leaders in the country and top business leaders from the country and/or abroad.
Program Content
This weeklong camp will consist of both theoretical and practical sessions that teach medium/advanced coding and robotics skills.
The training sessions will take place over the course of 5 working days (4 hours/per day). The rest of the day will be filled in with organized activities, such as cultural events, socialization, field trips to local sights, beaches, and sightseeing. Supervisors, lecturers, or volunteer chaperones, will accompany participants at all times.
Participants will be equipped with the following:
Interdisciplinary skills in STEM – basic and advanced STEM principles, coding, and robotics
Skills and abilities necessary for the 21st century, such as: Programming languages; Science and Engineering; Problem-, product-, project-based learning; Teamwork; Core leadership values; Outside the box thinking; Critical thinking; Creative thinking; Problem-solving;
Becoming Generations of Global Citizens who realize their power to build a better future with the use of technology
The program delivery will focus on modern, highly effective teaching and learning methods. The program curriculum will be delivered by certificated STEM lecturers. Participants will work in groups or in pairs to complete a customized project. Participants will work with exclusively available know-how for innovative learning based on a strategic plan and educational system with LEGO® Education who is a globally recognized educational system that enables innovative learning based on a strategic plan and a modern educational approach. The teaching model it follows is the 5E model: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate. Through this concept, students gain new knowledge while experimenting and exploring. The methodology not only introduces them to the world of STEM but also fosters self-confidence, encourages collaboration, and motivates them to develop their curiosity. LEGO® Education is much more than a learning tool – it is a platform that transforms students into creative thinkers, inspires them to explore their environment, and prepares them for future challenges with innovative and practical solutions.
Besides the core activities of the Camp, Macedonia2025 will enrich the Program with:
A meet and greet with President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova, a discussion on Democracy and Leadership, and an accompanying visit to the presidential villa “Biljana” in Ohrid (tbc)
How-those-it-works in practice: visit of an international company, where participants will gain insights into the highly complex and robotized production process;
Motivational discussions with members of the Macedonia2025 Board of Directors, with rich professional experiences and high competencies in computer science and engineering, passion for technology, and an entrepreneurial mind.
The Cultural Socialization and Networking will be comprised of the:
Orientation and team-building activities;
Networking with youths from different countries, engaging in cross-cultural learning experiences, exchanging ideas, and building networks for future international cooperation;
Public speaking activities that will enrich communication and increase the presentation skills of participants, as well as their creative and critical thinking;
Improving foreign language competencies (English/Macedonian);
Cultural activities and programs in partnership national music and arts festival.
Date and Location
Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp will take place on July 13-19, 2025in Ohrid, North Macedonia. The venue (a 3+ star hotel facility) will be announced in due time.
Language of instruction
The official language of instruction is English. However, we highly encourage the use of the Macedonian language in communication outside of the classroom.
Eligibility
Students aged 11-15, who are interested in deepening their knowledge in the fields of coding and robotics
Macedonian students and those of Macedonian origin from the diaspora
Adequate knowledge of the English and Macedonian languages is appreciated
Basic knowledge of Coding, Programming and Robotics
Preference will be given to young individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Application
To apply, you must fill in the APPLICATION FORM (HERE) and PARENT CONSENT FORM(MK and EN) , and attach the required documents on the Macedonia2025 E-scholarship Platform (HERE)
Important Note: The instructions and clarification for required documentation for scholarships for OHRID HI-TECH EXCELLENCE CAMP 2025 are available on the E-scholarship Platform (left corner under the botton APPLY)
Up to 20 candidates will be selected through the following selection process:
Administrative pre-selection of the applications by Macedonia2025
Selection of successful candidates by a Selection Committee
The selection committee will have a personal interview with the potential candidates
Selected candidates from the diaspora will be notified by May 2025, while candidates coming from Macedonia will be selected by begging June, 2025.
Note: Gender, ethnicity, and participation from different countries and regions in Macedonia will be taken into account when creating a diversified group of participants.
Participant’s fee
The scholarship fully covers all costs for the Camp.
The Camp scholarship covers classes, camp set of materials, FB accommodation, organized visits and excursions, and local transport costs.
As a sense of responsibility and giving back to your parent’s homeland opportunity awaits prospective participants from the diaspora: contribute a specified amount to sponsor the participation of a friend from a socially vulnerable family in Macedonia.
Note: The organizers reserve the right to provide partial scholarships, based on individual socio-economic background. The organizers will provide for the participant’s travel arrangements from Skopje to Ohrid.
Certificates for successful completion of the program will be awarded to all participants.
As partner organizations, the Academy for Robotics and Innovation and STEM Robotika Kočani will award an annual national-level scholarship to participants from Macedonia. Additionally, special prizes will be given to recognize participants’ knowledge and achievements in the FIRST LEGO League competitions, honoring their dedication to STEM education and innovation.
After program completion, beneficiaries are required to complete a satisfaction survey and submit testimonials.
The day kicked off with a stimulating session led by Robotics & Innovation Academy focusing on the “Master Piece” Challenge. It was a testament to creativity and teamwork, highlighted and focused on art and culture. Participants immersed themselves in identifying and addressing cultural and artistic issues within their communities. They applied critical thinking, research skills, and teamwork to develop innovative solutions, building their own robots and programming them to participate in the Masterpiece Challenge within a given time frame. The competition tasks required them to complete missions that showcased their interpretations of cultural themes through robotic artistry. A well-deserved lunch break provided time to recharge before diving into the creative workshop on Macedonian crafts, where participants crafted Friendship Medals, blending traditional artistry with modern design principles. The highlight of the evening was the farewell party, where achievements were celebrated and memories shared, marking the end of a transformative experience at the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp. This was our final day, where we reflect on the journey and celebrate the successes of our talented participants!
A Huge Thank You to Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp Incredible Partners! 🌟 A heartfelt thank you to our amazing corporate partners and supporters—Alkaloid, Kostal, Triglav Osiguruvanje,ItLabs, IWC, WVP Fund Investment, Vincini, and Fructal! Your unwavering support powers our participants’ journey into the world of robotics, making these enriching and memorable experiences possible for everyone involved at the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp. Your dedication and commitment have been pivotal in shaping the success of our program, enabling us to inspire and empower the next generation of innovators and leaders. Together, we have created a platform where young minds thrive, explore, and excel in the fields of technology and engineering.
We also extend our deepest gratitude to our implementing partners: Brainster, iSource Young Engineers Robotics & Innovation Academy Ohridsko Leto – Cultural program partner (http://ohridskoleto.com.mk/). Your collaboration and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the success of our program, from curriculum development to hands-on learning experiences. Together, we have created a platform where young minds thrive, explore, and excel in the fields of technology and engineering.
As we continue to advance and expand our initiatives, we look forward to further strengthening our partnership and exploring new opportunities to make a lasting impact.
Day 5 at the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp was an inspiring blend of innovation and honor, highlighted by the esteemed visit of President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova and an educational hands-on tour of Kostal Automobil Elektrik. The first highlight of the day was the visit to Kostal Macedonia. The tour offered a fascinating glimpse into the advanced automotive electronics industry. Participants learned about the intricate processes of designing and manufacturing electronic components used in modern vehicles. They saw firsthand how cutting-edge technology is applied in practice to create sophisticated automotive systems such as sensor modules, control units, and switch panels. This hands-on experience was both educational and inspiring, showcasing the latest advancements in automotive technology and the practical applications of engineering principles in real-world scenarios. A big thank you to Kostal for this impressive experience! Later, we had the immense honor of welcoming President Gordana Siljanovska Davkova and our cofounder Mitre Kutanovski to our camp. Their visit included a presentation of projects by our talented participants, followed by a short address. To commemorate their achievements, President Davkova delivered certificates to the participants, marking a moment of pride and recognition for their hard work and dedication. Her engagement and encouragement were truly motivational, emphasizing the importance of fostering young talent in Macedonia. The afternoon featured an enlightening session with Brainster, where participants delved into the Fable robotic system. They explored its components and various sensors, both internal and external. The session also covered fundamental programming concepts such as algorithms, conditions, loops, variables, and functions, all within the context of the Fable ecosystem. This session also focused on Design Thinking, guiding participants through the creation process from idea to prototype. Working on group projects, they applied their newfound knowledge and creativity, resulting in impressive prototypes and innovative solutions. Stay tuned for more exciting adventures and discoveries tomorrow!🌟 #macedonia2025 #mk2025education #mk2025leadershipdevelopment #mk2025scholarships #македонија2025 #mk2025networking #mk2025partnerships
Today, we were honored to welcome the President of the Republic of Macedonia, Siljanovska Davkova, to the Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp! Her visit added an extraordinary dimension to our camp, inspiring both participants and organizers alike.
President Siljanovska Davkova engaged with our young innovators, exploring their projects and discussing the importance of technology and education in shaping the future of our nation. Her words of encouragement and insight were a highlight of the day, leaving a lasting impression on everyone.
We extend our deepest gratitude to President Siljanovska Davkova for her patronage and unwavering support of this project. Her involvement underscores the significance of nurturing young talent and fostering a culture of innovation in Macedonia.
Thank you, President Siljanovska Davkova, for being a beacon of inspiration and for your dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders.
We’re proud of our diverse group from the US, Canada, France, Slovenia, Croatia, Malta, and Macedonia, and grateful to all our program partners and supporters who make this journey possible: 
and a healthy breakfast to fuel our brains and bodies for a packed agenda.
They learned about different types of sensors, programming concepts like loops and variables, and how these are used within the Fable ecosystem. In the afternoon, they worked on creative group projects using Design Thinking, bringing their ideas to life through prototyping and robot movement programming.
, the group headed into the historic heart of Ohrid for a beautiful sunset walking tour. Starting from the Upper Gate and Ancient Theater, we strolled to Plaošnik, passed by St. Sophia, and ended in the charming city center, where we were captivated by Ohrid’s timeless beauty. 
Another day full of teamwork, learning, and discovery—thanks to the incredible support of our program partners: Young Engineers, Brainster, STEM Robotika Kocani, iSource, Robotics & Innovation Academy, and Ohrid Summer Festival, and our amazing supporters: Triglav, Kostal, Alkaloid, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs, Fructal, Vincini, and ForestBar.
A huge thank you to the Kostal team for opening their doors and minds to our young innovators!
We are deeply grateful to our program partners: 
And a big thank you to our supporters: Triglav osiguruvanje, Alkaloid, Kostal, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs, Fructal, Vincini, and ForestBar – for believing in this journey and making it happen!
Spinner – A fun challenge to learn rotation, timing, and motion through coding.
Huge thanks to our amazing program partners: Young Engineers Skopje, 
