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From March 16 to 27, 2026, an educational and environmental exchange took place at the Leopoldinum – Smart City primary school in Graz, with the participation of a delegation from North Macedonia composed of SEEU representatives. This activity was organized with the support of the Austrian company Saubermacher, aiming to strengthen international cooperation, promote sustainability, and exchange best practices in education.
During their stay, the delegation participated in activities based on inquiry-based learning within the prestigious IB-PYP program. The focus was on the interdisciplinary theme “Sharing the Planet,” where students addressed real environmental challenges such as water pollution, recycling, and biodiversity. First- and second-grade students presented their results through role-playing, delivering strong messages and concrete solutions such as recycling, reducing pollution, and using solar energy. Presentations were held in English in a multilingual environment with students from over 40 countries.
This project also marks a historic moment, as it represents the first time a teaching stay in an Austrian school included simultaneous participation of SEEU representatives (one professor and two students). “This engagement enabled the application of theoretical knowledge in practice, developing skills in project-based learning, communication, and intercultural cooperation,” emphasized Professor Hajrulla Hajrullai.
The active and inclusive engagement of participants was also recognized by Austrian media, which highlighted the importance of such cooperation in promoting innovative teaching methods and environmental awareness at the international level.
A key role in this initiative is played by the company Saubermacher through the engagement of its founder, Hans Roth, who emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and experience in Southeast Europe. According to him, the goal is not only to improve waste management infrastructure but also to create a sustainable societal impact through education and awareness among younger generations. He underlines that children are “the environmental ambassadors of tomorrow.”
In this context, cooperation with the Municipality of Tetovo represents a successful model of public-private partnership in the environmental sector, covering around 105,000 residents, with the aim of achieving European standards in the circular economy and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Considering the importance of international cooperation in advancing education and sustainability, the Municipality of Tetovo has continuously supported the successful implementation of this activity.
“Beyond a cleaner and more orderly city, now is the time to continue with the replication of international best practices in advancing education and sustainability. With dedication and close cooperation, we have introduced a new European standard in waste management,” emphasized the Mayor of Tetovo, Mr. Bilall Kasami.
As part of these joint efforts, exchange participants will engage in awareness-raising activities with primary school students in Tetovo, promoting an essential model of cooperation between the public, private, and academic sectors.
Additional information:
- Saubermacher Tetovo: contact@saubermacher-tetovo.mk
- South-East European University: proffice@seeu.edu.mk
- Municipality of Tetovo: info@tetova.gov.mk