3D Modeling and 3D Printing
Overview
SmartUp delivered the second edition of its 3D Modeling and 3D Printing Workshop for high school students in 2021, with support from the City of Skopje, building on its 2019 pilot programme to continue introducing secondary school students to 3D technologies, digital fabrication, and entrepreneurial problem-solving. The workshop attracted 75 applications from students across Skopje's public and private high schools, from which SmartUp selected 15 participants through a competitive process based on motivation, prior experience, school representation, and gender balance.
Delivered at the Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering (FINKI) in partnership with M3DS Academy, the workshop gave students hands-on training in 3D modeling software and professional 3D printers, guiding them through the complete production process from design to print. The programme again achieved a 4.8/5 satisfaction score and a 4.91/5 trainer rating, with 96% of participants requesting an advanced follow-on programme — consistent results that confirm SmartUp's track record delivering high-quality technical education for young people in North Macedonia.
The challenge
Limited exposure to emerging technologies. Most high school students had little or no opportunity to gain practical experience with 3D modeling and 3D printing despite the growing demand for these skills in the labour market.
Limited practical STEM learning opportunities. Schools had limited access to modern equipment and hands-on learning experiences that allow students to develop technical and creative competencies beyond the traditional curriculum.
Bridging education and innovation. There was a need to demonstrate how new technologies can support innovation, entrepreneurship, and social problem-solving while preparing young people for future employment opportunities.
Promoting wider institutional adoption. The project sought to encourage schools and local authorities to recognize the value of investing in emerging technologies and integrating them into education.
Activities and methods
The project attracted 75 applications from students across public and private high schools in Skopje, demonstrating strong interest in advanced digital technologies. Following a competitive selection process based on motivation, prior experience, school representation, and gender balance, 15 students participated in the workshop.
The workshop was delivered at the Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering (FINKI) in partnership with M3DS Academy and featured expert-led sessions on the fundamentals of 3D modeling, 3D printing technologies, digital design software, and hands-on demonstrations using professional 3D printers. Participants designed and printed sample 3D models while learning about the complete production process.
To extend learning beyond the workshop, participants received certificates, joined a follow-up mentoring and communication network with the trainers, and evaluated the programme. The workshop achieved an overall participant satisfaction score of 4.8/5, while the quality of the trainers was rated 4.91/5, with 96% of participants expressing interest in attending an advanced training programme.
Impact and learning
The project demonstrated a demand among young people for practical technology education, confirming that high school students are eager to develop skills in emerging digital fields when such opportunities are available. Beyond introducing participants to 3D technologies, the workshop strengthened their creativity, technical competencies, and understanding of how digital fabrication can be applied to innovation and entrepreneurship.
Feedback from participants highlighted widespread support for introducing 3D modeling and 3D printing into secondary school curricula. Students recognized the potential of these technologies across subjects such as entrepreneurship, biology, chemistry, and engineering, while expressing strong interest in having 3D printers available within their schools. The project also strengthened collaboration between schools, higher education institutions, and industry experts, creating new opportunities for future advanced training programmes, peer mentoring initiatives, and broader integration of innovative technologies into the education system.
Gallery
Planning similar work?
SmartUp can support research, co-creation, facilitation, digital tools, implementation, or learning documentation for related programmes.