On June 3, 2025, the hall of the primary school “Goce Delchev” in Prilep was transformed into a vibrant hub of scientific creativity as part of the Science and Me initiative, supported by Johnson Matthey and implemented by Macedonia2025. This Regional Science Fair brought together students, teachers, mentors, and guests in a celebration of hands-on science, mentorship, and the joy of learning.

Over the day, around 40 students from grades 6–8 showcased their projects and experiments to more than 300 peers, educators, and visitors from the local community. The energy, curiosity, and teamwork on display were a powerful reminder of the importance of practical science education in inspiring the next generation of innovators.

Participating Schools and Teachers

The fair featured an impressive lineup of participants guided by passionate and dedicated mentor-teachers:

• OOU “Marshal Tito” – Strumica | Teacher: Aneta Krstova

Experiments: Color diffusion, soil filtration, and student-made classroom projects

• OOU “Naim Frasheri” – Kumanovo | Teacher: Dafina Sulejmani

Experiments: Catapult & potential energy, lava lamp, hot & cold water density, vacuum with candle and water

• OOU “Goce Delchev” – Vinica | Teacher: Marija Dzabirska

Experiments: Fire and air, magnetism, mini volcanoes

• OOU “Lazo Angelovski” – Skopje | Teachers: Donka Miteva & Keti Ivanoska

Experiments: Lava lamp, black snake, surface tension, flying bags, microscope demonstrations

• OOU “Goce Delchev” – Prilep (host) | Teachers: Biljana Andreeska Georgieska & Maja Davkova

Experiments: Combustion and pressure, electrical conductivity in metals and solutions, phenology and climate change

• OOU “Dame Gruev” – s. Erdzelija, Sveti Nikole | Teacher: Maja Davkova

Experiment: Conductors and insulators

• OOU “Shemshevo” – Jegunovce and OOU “Simche Nastovski” – Vratnica | Teacher: Shadije Fetai

Experiments: Vinegar and baking soda reaction, electric circuits, traditional natural soap with NaOH

Each school presented 2–5 experiments or projects, carefully prepared with guidance from their teachers. The diversity of topics and styles reflected the unique curiosity and creativity of every student team.

Guest Speakers and Opening Remarks

The fair officially began at noon, following a short dramatization by the host students. In the opening session, participants were welcomed by:

• Snežana Koteva, Principal of the primary school “Goce Delchev” – Prilep, who emphasized the importance of investing in practical education and teacher capacity-building
• Goce Bamburovski, Head of Development at the Municipality of Prilep, who highlighted local education reform, cross-sector collaboration and opportunities given by the local government (internship and scholarships)
• Zvonko Tanev, Quality Manager at Johnson Matthey, who spoke about the company’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and supporting science education
• Nena Manchev, Education and Leadership Program Manager at Macedonia2025, who presented the project’s vision and goals, and emphasized the role of science fairs in transferring knowledge among students

Science in Action

The centerpiece of the event was the interactive exhibition of student experiments. Visitors, peers, and guests moved from one stand to another, engaging with presenters and asking questions. The team from Johnson Matthey also joined the exhibition with their own set of mini-experiments and live demonstrations, allowing students to interact with real-world applications of science and get inspired by professionals in the field.

Reflections from the Ground

Here are a few impressions shared by teachers and students who participated:

“I felt very happy to be part of the Science Fair – it was an experience that gave me motivation and new knowledge! Heartfelt thanks for the entire experience!”-  Student participant from Vratnica

“As a group, we had a great time and I felt truly happy. It was an amazing experience. I’m very grateful for the dedication and inspiration you gave us to keep learning and growing!” – Student participant from Shemshevo

“First of all, thank you for the opportunity to participate in the Science Fair in Prilep. As a young teacher, it was a truly valuable and wonderful experience for me. I have nothing but praise for the organization and the execution of the entire project—both the training and the fair. The atmosphere was joyful and energetic for the children, and relaxed and supportive for us teachers. I connected with many colleagues, and I believe these collaborations will continue beyond the project. I want to express sincere praise for you as organizers—you were always available, encouraging, and kind. I truly hope we meet again and continue our cooperation. The children were thrilled and impressed by the entire event—they were grateful and excited to have this new experience.” – Teacher from Strumica

Mentorship and Capacity Building

One of the key innovations in this year’s Science and Me program is the creation of mentorship pairs among teachers. Each participating school had a mentor teacher working closely with a younger colleague, jointly planning lessons, supporting student preparation, and experimenting with new teaching techniques. This structure not only strengthens classroom practices but also builds a peer-to-peer professional support network.

Gratitude to the Host School

A heartfelt thank you to the primary school “Goce Delchev” in Prilep for their warm hospitality and for providing an inspiring, safe, and inclusive environment where young minds could freely explore and share their ideas.

Looking Ahead

The “Science and Me” initiative, part of Johnson Matthey’s Community Impact Program, continues to expand its reach and impact. Macedonia2025 remains committed to empowering students and educators, bridging the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.