We marked the beginning of April at International Balkan University with a vibrant celebration of creativity and expression by hosting a Choral Reading Competition organized by our English Language Teaching Department. This meaningful event brought together high school students from across Skopje, creating a dynamic and inspiring platform where young learners engaged with literature through collaborative performance. By organizing such initiatives, we continue to strengthen our commitment to community engagement and to fostering a passion for language, arts, and education among future generations.

We were delighted to welcome 25 students from SUGS “Orce Nikolov”, SUGS “Josip Broz Tito”, and Maarif International Schools, who participated in group performances of selected poems. Through choral reading, we observed students showcasing not only their interpretive abilities, but also their teamwork, confidence, and creativity in a highly engaging format. The competition was coordinated by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sezen Ismail, whose dedication ensured a well-structured and enriching experience for all participants. During the program, the Dean of the Faculty of Education, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Igballe Miftari Fetishi, addressed the audience and presented the academic vision and study opportunities offered by our Faculty, further strengthening the connection between high school students and university life.

We enriched the event by introducing participants to our campus environment and academic culture, including a presentation highlighting student life and opportunities at IBU. At the conclusion of the competition, we awarded certificates to all participants and their teachers in recognition of their efforts, while a selected jury announced the winning group following a careful evaluation of the performances. Through this inspiring initiative, we once again demonstrated our dedication to supporting young talent, encouraging creative expression, and building strong bridges between secondary education and higher education, as we continue to invest in the development of future educators and language professionals.