Behind every impactful educational initiative are the stories of those who lived it – teachers who adapted, guided, and inspired, and students whose curiosity was sparked and deepened. Throughout the 2024/2025 school year, the Johnson Matthey “Science and Me” project placed experiential learning, mentorship, and real-world science at the heart of classroom transformation. This section captures authentic reflections from educators and students who participated in professional development workshops, science fairs, and school-to-lab visits. Their voices provide powerful testimony to the lasting impact of hands-on, inquiry-based science education. Through their words, we see not just the outcomes – but the journey of growing a culture of curiosity.

A. Teacher Training Workshops

Teachers who attended the professional development workshops emphasized the practical value, collaborative spirit, and motivational impact of the sessions. The training provided them with new approaches and rekindled their enthusiasm for teaching science.

“The training was well organized and gave us new ideas on how to make science more interesting and accessible for students. It was inspiring and offered practical tools. We shared teaching methods and discussed how to adapt them to different classroom environments. These insights made me reflect on how to improve my own teaching practice.”
— Teacher, Sveti Nikole

“Through practical examples and peer mentoring, I refreshed my own knowledge and learned how to support fellow teachers more effectively. The mentor discussions opened space for collaboration, and I now feel more confident in guiding my younger colleagues.”
— Teacher, Negotino

“This training motivated me to be more creative and dedicated as a teacher. I feel empowered to approach science education more engagingly. It gave me the tools to present complex topics in a more approachable and fun manner, helping students stay curious and motivated.”
— Teacher, Vinica

“Participating in the training within the project ‘Science and Me’ was a great motivation and inspiration for me. Through practical examples and interactive exercises, I learned new approaches to bringing science closer to students in an interesting and understandable way. The training encouraged me to be more creative, more dedicated as a teacher.”
— Teacher, Skopje

B. Regional Science Fairs

The science fairs offered a platform where students took center stage – presenting their experiments, engaging with peers, and celebrating science in a lively, inclusive atmosphere. Teachers reflected on the powerful boost in student motivation and creativity, while students expressed a sense of wonder and pride.

“The science fair was an amazing experience filled with energy and teamwork. Students learned how to present confidently, work in teams, and express creativity. They were proud to show their work to peers and guests, and many of them said they felt like real scientists for the first time.”
— Teacher, Kičevo

“It was inspiring to see how enthusiastic the students were. They proudly showcased their projects and were thrilled to receive feedback from visitors. The event created a spirit of cooperation among schools and ignited new ideas for future experiments and cross-school collaboration.”
— Teacher, Skopje

“My students felt like real scientists! They were thrilled to be part of such a large event and said it motivated them to explore science even more. They asked when the next event would be and already have ideas for future projects. This was a powerful confidence boost for them.”
— Teacher, Radovish

“I had a really interesting and fun time at the Science Fair – it was like entering a world full of ideas and discoveries! I learned new things I didn’t know before, and I was most impressed by the experiments and modern equipment at Johnson Matthey. I would recommend all students to go, because it is a unique and unforgettable experience!”
— Student, Skopje

“I really liked the Science Fair – like a paradise of science with new experiences and discoveries! So many creative things that I saw for the first time. A place to learn and discover new scientific breakthroughs! You really should visit it at least once, because that energy is invaluable. I had a wonderful experience!!”
— Student, Skopje

“The science fair was a great opportunity to promote scientific curiosity, critical thinking and teamwork among students, who presented their experiments to the audience with great dedication. I would like to express my special gratitude to the organizers of the ‘Science and Me’ project and the Macedonia2025 team for their support, professionalism and vision, which enabled us to be part of a true celebration of knowledge and inspiration. Their work was crucial in creating an encouraging and inclusive atmosphere, where science became accessible and exciting for all participants.”
— Teacher, Shemshevo

C. Mentorship Collaboration

Mentorship proved to be a key pillar of support in the “Science and Me” project. By pairing experienced educators with younger colleagues, the initiative fostered professional growth, confidence, and collaboration. These relationships not only enhanced the preparation for science fairs but also created lasting connections that extend beyond the project. Teachers shared how mentorship enriched their practice and inspired them to continue building a supportive teaching community.

“I had a wonderful collaboration with my mentor. They were always available to share ideas and feedback, which meant a lot to me throughout the science fair preparation process. I believe that mentor teachers play a crucial role in helping young educators gain experience across all aspects of our profession. We’ve stayed in touch even after the fair, and I look forward to future collaborations.” – Teacher, Strumica

“Through the exchange of experiences with advisors and other mentors, the training gave me fresh ideas on how to make natural sciences more interesting and accessible for students. It encouraged me to rethink my approach and try out new strategies in the classroom.” – Teacher, Sveti Nikole

D. Visit to Johnson Matthey Plant in Skopje

Seeing science applied in a real-world context left a lasting impression on students and teachers alike. The visit to Johnson Matthey’s factory brought school science lessons to life, inspiring interest in STEM careers and showcasing industry’s role in sustainability.

“Visiting the Johnson Matthey factory was an unforgettable experience. We saw advanced technologies and real-world applications of science in action. The students were fascinated by how school subjects like chemistry and physics play a role in environmental protection and product innovation.”
— Student, Sveti Nikole

“The lab was my favorite part—seeing physical and chemical tests up close was incredible. It showed us the precision required in modern industry. It made me appreciate how science is not just theory but a key part of how the world works.”
— Student, Radovish

“This visit showed how scientific knowledge translates into high-tech production and environmental protection. It truly connected classroom theory to practice. We left with a better understanding of STEM careers and the role of industry in sustainability. I would love to bring more students in the future.”
— Teacher, Skopje

Encouraged by these results and voices, we look forward to continuing and expanding the program in the 2025/2026 school year.

The Project is implemented as part of the Johnson Matthey Community Impact Program “Science and Me”