Bulgaria Proposes Technical Education Reforms

Bulgaria's Minister of Education, Krasimir Valchev, has announced a series of reforms aimed at improving technical higher education in the country. Among the key proposals is the introduction of a mandatory mathematics matriculation exam for high school graduates. This measure is seen as essential for reversing the decline in interest in engineering and technical studies, as well as improving students' academic preparation, CE Report quotes BTA

Valchev emphasized that only 2,000 students currently take the math exam annually, while fewer than 200 opt for physics or chemistry. This is against the backdrop of a shrinking student population, with the number of graduates halving over the past 30 years. The country also faces a critical shortage of professionals in fields like hydro-engineering, where only 15 graduates are produced annually, while 150 are needed.

The proposed reforms include linking university admissions to math exam results for key fields, increasing the weight of math scores in admissions, and offering scholarships for students excelling in math, physics, or chemistry. Additionally, the Ministry plans to meet with sectors with significant labor shortages, such as water utilities and nuclear energy, to discuss targeted scholarships.

Despite budget constraints, the Ministry is committed to funding these initiatives and will introduce changes to the national curriculum framework in May to increase focus on mathematics and natural sciences.