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Teacher and Students’ Voices and Reflections from the JM “Science and Me” project

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”

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Данка Јефтимова – Силна логика, големи амбиции и инспиративна посветеност

Данка Јефтимова, стипендистка од генерацијата2024/2025 во рамки на фондот за поддршка на талентирани средношколци Таленти денес – лидери утре, е ученичка во трета година воПриродно-математичката гимназија во Скопје, на насокатаМатематика–информатика. Таа доаѓа од Кочани и е дел од оние тивки, но извонредни умови кои доследно постигнуваат врвни резултати.

Со освоено второ место на Државниот натпревар по математика и трето место на Државниот натпревар по информатика, Данка ја потврдува својата страсна поврзаност со логиката и аналитичкото размислување. Учеството на Македонската математичка олимпијада, како и положениот CS50P курс по Python на Харвард, ја позиционираат меѓу водечките млади умови во СТЕМ областите.

🏆 Натпревари и научни предизвици

Во текот на 2025 година, Данка:

  • Освои трето место на државниот натпревар по информатика
  • Се пласираше во потесен избор за тимот за European Girls Olympiad in Informatics (EGOI)
  • Учеше на подготовки за селекција и доби пофалница
  • Учестуваше на регионален и училишен натпревар по информатика, искачувајќи се чекор по чекор со целосна посветеност

🔬 Истражувачки дух

Во тим со своја пријателка, Данка напиша труд на тема:
„Биокомпјутери и ДНК програмирање: Искористување на кодот на животот“, во рамки на конкурс организиран од СММ, Здружението за информатика и МАНУ. Преку оваа иницијатива:

„Ги надградив моите истражувачки способности, успеав да прикажам една напредна тема на лесен и разбирлив начин и секако научив нешто ново за еден нов начин на програмирање“, вели Данка.

🌐 Глобално учење и вмрежување

  • Во декември 2024, учествуваше на Еразмус+ проект во Романија – Digitally United, каде што дискутираа за влијанието на вештачката интелигенција
  • Во јуни 2025, Данка беше дел од младинска размена во ПолскаArt of Games, каде што претставуваше дел од македонскиот тим, споделувајќи култура и креативност
  • Во јули 2025, ја очекува виртуелниот камп по наука на податоци во рамки на Kode with Klossy, програма за девојки од целиот свет

❤️ Волонтерство и активизам

Во ноември 2024, Данка активно се приклучи на крводарителска акција на Црвен крст – Карпош, каде помогна во логистичката поддршка на дарителите. Таа покажува дека покрај алгоритми и формули, разбира и важноста на човечката солидарност.

🏫 Менторство што води напред

Соработката со нејзината менторка во рамки на програмата била од исклучително значење: “Со нејзина поддршка и помош успеав да добијам место во виртуелниот камп. Таа ми го раскажа факултетскиот процес и нејзиното искуство, со што ми одговори на многу прашања и дилеми поврзани со мојата идниот академски развој и кариера„, споделува Данка.

Данка Јефтимова е пример за млада личност која со љубопитност, дисциплина и отворен ум ја гради својата иднина. Таа е симбол на новата генерација девојки во технологијата – храбри, паметни и подготвени да создадат подобро утре.

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Матеј Наунов – Средношколец од Кочани кој го движи СТЕМ духот напред

Матеј Наунов, 17-годишен ученик од Кочани, е стипендист од генерацијата 2024/2025 во рамки на Фондот за поддршка на талентирани средношколци „Таленти денес – лидери утре“. Тој е ученик во трета година во СОУ „Гошо Викентиев“, на насоката Компјутерска техника и автоматика, каде што неговата страст кон природните науки, роботиката и програмирањето се претвораат во конкретни проекти со општествено значење.

Од училишна клупа до вистинска промена во заедницата

Во рамки на програмата LEAD, Матеј беше тим лидер на проектот за изработка на веб-страница за здружението на лица со попреченост „Мобилност Кочани“. Неговиот тим се вброи меѓу најдобрите 5 од 36 и успешно ја лансираше веб-страницата mobilnostkocani.mk, со поддршка од наставници, локални власти и претставници од Норвешката амбасада.

Практично знаење, конкретни резултати

Преку предметот „учење преку работа кај работодавач“, Матеј реализираше пракса во ИТ компанијата Vista Point. Таму учествуваше во решавање багови и развој на софтверски решенија со Node.js и TypeScript, како и на креативни задачи – како изработка на игра слична на „Зборле“ и веб-страница за обновливи извори на енергија.

Роботика и лидерство

По 6 години активно натпреварување во First Lego League, оваа година Матеј го презеде предизвикот како ментор на тимот Robo Mosquitos, еден од најуспешните тимови во Македонија. Иако тимот не се квалификуваше за светското првенство, натпреварот му донесе вредно искуство, лидерски вештини и чувство на заедништво.

Меѓународно искуство – Финска и Еразмус+

Во март 2025, Матеј учествуваше на Еразмус+ проектот Sustainable Alternatives Future Essentials во Педерсоре, Финска. Тој одржа предавања за веб-програмирање, водеше работилници и соучествуваше во создавање на едукативни дигитални содржини – комбинирајќи технологија, едукација и креативност.

Менторство што инспирира

Преку програмата на MK2025, Матеј доби ментор со кој одржува редовни средби – преку Zoom и во живо. Темите на разговор се движат од личен развој и поставување цели, до водење бизнис и животни одлуки. Средбите му даваа насока, инспирација и мотивација за идните предизвици. Еве што тој вели: “Разговаравме за прашања поврзани со мојот личен развој – на кои полиња треба да се фокусирам повеќе, како да го искористам најдобро моето време додека сум уште ученик и кои се вештини што ќе ми користат во иднина, без разлика дали ќе студирам или ќе започнам сопствен бизнис. Средбите со него секогаш ми минуваат брзо, бидејќи се исполнети со практични совети, инспиративни приказни и корисни насоки. Често ми раскажуваше реални примери од неговото искуство – како реагирал во одредени животни ситуации, кои одлуки ги донел, што научил од грешките и кои принципи ги следи во животот и работата.

Матеј Наунов претставува младинец кој не само што учи – туку и создава, менува и води. Преку својот пример инспирира генерации на млади да ја изберат науката, технологијата и хуманоста како патека кон подобро утре.

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Day 6, Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp Recap: A Presidential Visit to Remember 

18.07.2025

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.

Grateful to all our program partners and supporters who make this journey possible: Young Engineers Skopje MacedoniaRobotics & Innovation AcademySTEM Robotika Kocani, Brainster, iSource, Ohrid Summer Festival, and supporters Triglav, Alkaloid, Kostal, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs and Fructal. 

Thank you to our educators and families who made this journey possible. Until next year – keep dreaming big and building bold! 

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Day 5 Recap: Birthdays, Bots & Big Ideas! 

17.07.2025

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.

The evening ended with Harry Potter movie night, filled with laughter, Vincinni Chocoland – Фабричка продавница and ForestBar snacks, and a little magic. 🧙♂️✨

🌍 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 MacedoniaRobotics & Innovation AcademySTEM Robotika Kocani, Brainster, iSource, Ohrid Summer Festival, and supporters Triglav, Alkaloid, Kostal, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs and Fructal. 💙

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Day 4, Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp Recap: Robotics, Innovation & Exploring Ohrid!

16.07.2025

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! 🚀

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Day 3, Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp Recap: Innovation Meets Tradition!

15.07.2025

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.

🙌 We are deeply grateful to our program partners: Young Engineers Skopje Macedonia, Robotics & Innovation Academy, STEM Robotika Kocani, Brainster,@iSource and Ohrid Summer Festival – Фестивал Охридско лето.

🙏 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!

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Day 2, Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025 Recap: Powering Up Our Robotic Minds!

14.07.2025

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.

Stay tuned for more inspiring moments tomorrow! 🌟

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Day 1, Ohrid Hi-Tech Excellence Camp 2025 Recap: A High-Tech Journey Begins!

13.07.2025

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!

🤝 Huge thanks to our amazing program partners: Young Engineers Skopje, Robotics & Innovation AcademySTEM Robotika KocaniBrainster, iSource, and Ohrid Summer Festival – Фестивал Охридско лето, and to our generous supporters: Triglav, Alkaloid, Kostal, IWConnect, A1, IT Labs, Fructal, Vincini, and ForestBar – for helping us create this unforgettable experience.

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Иво Тојтов – Стипендист кој ја спои науката, уметноста и претприемништвото

Иво Тојтов, ученик во четврта година во СУГС Гимназија „Орце Николов“ во Скопје, беше наш стипендист во рамки на Фондот за поддршка на талентирани средношколци “Таленти денес – лидери утре„ од генерацијата 2024/2025 .

Тој е вистински пример за млад човек кој со љубопитност, ентузијазам, сестраност и упорност остава силен впечаток и зад себе остава значајни резултати.  За своите академски постигнувања, ангажман и исклучителна активност, Иво беше избран за првенец на генерацијата во своето училиште.

Наука што решава реални проблеми: Како дел од тимот „LuftON“ на Climathon Skopje 2024, Иво работеше на иновативно решение за аерозагадувањето – мастило за маркери за бела табла направено од саѓи (прашкасти остатоци од оџаците). Благодарение на неговите знаења од хемија, тимот успешно разви прототип. Следната цел им е самостојно производство на еколошка обвивка за маркерот со рециклирана пластика и 3D принтер.

Натпревари и признанија: Иво освои низа награди:

  • II награда на општинскиот и III награда на регионалниот натпревар по хемија
  • III место на регионалниот и I награда на државниот натпревар по германски јазик
  • Сертификат за учество на државниот натпревар по филозофија

Едукатор и креатор на содржини: Иво ја пренесува љубовта кон хемијата преку својот профил @totohemija на Instagram, каде што објавува постови од серијалот „Хемијата е насекаде околу нас“. Истовремено, држи приватни часови по хемија за други ученици, притоа поттикнувајќи ги да ја засакаат оваа наука.

Музичка изразност: Иво активно учествуваше во низа настани по повод 70-годишниот јубилеј на неговото училиште – СУГС „Орце Николов“. Се истакна со соло изведба на саксофон („My Way“), настапи како дел од гимназискиот оркестар, учествуваше во мјузикл и театарска претстава.

Менторство што прави разлика: Преку програмата, Иво доби поддршка од својот ментор особено при изборот на идниот академски пат. По конструктивен разговор, тој донесе одлука да продолжи со студии на Институтот за хемија при ПМФ – УКИМ, насока Применета хемија – аналитичка биохемија.

Личен напредок: Положувањето на возачкиот испит беше уште еден чекор кон неговата самостојност и подготвеност за универзитетските предизвици.

Иво Тојтов претставува токму тој тип на млад лидер какви што сакаме да ги поддржиме преку програмата „Таленти денес – лидери утре“. Неговата приказна е инспирација за многу други средношколци кои сонуваат големо и се подготвени да вложат во себе.

Му посакуваме многу успех во продолжувањето на образованието и со нетрпение ги очекуваме неговите идни достигнувања!