As part of the international scientific conference PASTECHL Podgorica 2025, a workshop titled “Science Is Not Scary: Children as Researchers” was held at the Science and Technology Park of Montenegro, within the framework of the Festival of Art, Science and Culture – FUNK 2025.
This unique workshop brought together more than thirty students aged eleven to fourteen, who, with the mentoring support of teachers and scientists, prepared and presented their own research projects in the fields of sports science and health.
The atmosphere of the event resembled that of a real scientific conference — young researchers presented the results of their studies, answered questions from the audience, and discussed their findings with scientists. The workshop was open to parents, the media, and the general public, and was streamed online.
The project was coordinated by Prof. Dr. Stevo Popović from the University of Montenegro, while the project team included Dr. Novica Gardašević, Mr. Blažo Jabučanin, Bojana Miranović, and Mr. Miodrag Zarubica, Director of PASTECHL. The organizers emphasized that the goal of this project was to bring science closer to children in an interactive and engaging way, encouraging their research spirit, critical thinking, and interest in scientific inquiry.
PASTECHL has been organizing international scientific and educational events for many years, and this year’s conference in Podgorica, held as part of FUNK, brought together numerous local and international experts. A special focus was placed on engaging young people in science and innovation, with the “Science Is Not Scary” workshop further highlighting the importance of research-based education and collaboration between the academic community and the youngest generations.