The project aims to strengthen science education in Macedonia by empowering primary school teachers (grades 1–9) with modern teaching techniques and inspiring over 2,000 students aged 12–14 to engage in STEM. The program supports teachers through workshops, resources, and mentoring while providing students with science fairs, lab visits, and real-world exposure to scientific careers. Special emphasis is placed on reaching underrepresented groups such as girls, ethnic minorities, and students from low-income backgrounds.
Expected Results
Improved attitudes toward science among approximately 2,000 students in grades 6–7.
At least 100 science teachers trained from 50+ schools, with a focus on educators with less than 5 years of experience.
Minimum 10% increase in teacher confidence and 5% increase in motivation to teach science.
A small-scale research study will be conducted to measure changes in teacher motivation, confidence, and the use of innovative teaching methods.
Creation of science fairs, school visits to the JM plant, and a promotional campaign “Science for the Future” to further engage students and the wider community.
Opportunities for JM employees to volunteer as speakers, science fair guests, or STEM role models.
The aim of the project is to equip science teachers in rural/urban primary schools in North Macedonia with skills and techniques to promote the interest and ambition of pupils to love science and choose their future careers in science. The Teacher and Training impact area can be influenced by giving instructors tools and instruction on how to incorporate science subjects into their curricula and engage students. Encouraging educators to participate in seminars or workshops devoted to science education and by creating a mentoring program where veteran science educators can assist and advise rookie educators.
Expected results
● Change in attitudes of approx. 1500 young people towards science and technology (6th-9th grade elementary school)
● At least 25 primary school science teachers from 10-15 elementary schools in North Macedonia will be equipped with the necessary skills and techniques to teach science effectively and inspire their students to pursue science-related careers.
● At least 10% improved teacher confidence: Teachers who receive training are likely to feel more confident in their ability to teach science effectively, leading to improved job satisfaction and retention.
● At least 5% increased teacher motivation: Teachers who receive training are likely to feel more motivated to teach science, leading to improved job satisfaction and retention.
We outline the opportunities for Johnson Matthey Macedonia staff to volunteer as part of this project, and the number of volunteer opportunities that will be available.
Macedonia2025 is tasked to conduct an evaluation of the British Council, project titled “21st Century Schools”. In particular, British Council is implementing and sponsoring a 36 month programme supporting up to 1million 10-15 year olds across the Western Balkans with, coding, critical thinking and problem solving (CTPS) skills to enable better opportunities for youth employment, and ultimately support economic development. Macedonia2025, as a partner of the London School of Economics (LSE) will undertake an evaluation of the effects achieved with the project, i.e. intervention. The main goals, as explained, is to develop the CTPS skills of young individuals in Macedonia (and Balkan region), through changing the delivery mode of the curricula and classroom practices.
