For another consecutive year, the National Agency for Vocational Education and Training (NAVET) organised the national conference “European Dimensions of Vocational Education and Training”, in line with the requirements of ReferNet – the European network for information exchange and cooperation in vocational education and training, for which NAVET serves as the Bulgarian national partner.
One of ReferNet’s key responsibilities is the preparation of reports, studies, and analyses that support the European Commission in developing evidence-based policies aimed at modernising vocational education and training (VET) systems across Europe and responding to the evolving needs of the EU Member States.
In addition to presenting the main highlights of ReferNet’s activities during 2025, the conference addressed several timely and relevant topics, including:
- the development of State Educational Standards and National Examination Programmes for the professions included in Bulgaria’s new List of Professions for Vocational Education and Training, within the framework of the “Modernisation of Vocational Education and Training” project;
- opportunities for publicly funded adult learning and upskilling programmes;
- current challenges facing the vocational education and training system;
- the Herning Declaration on Attractive and Inclusive Vocational Education and Training, adopted on 12 September 2025.
The conference brought together representatives of national institutions, employers’ organisations, and sectoral stakeholders. Among the speakers were:
- Ms Petya Evtimova, National ReferNet Coordinator;
- Mr Rosen Simeonov, Head of the Vocational Guidance and Adult Learning Department at the Employment Agency;
- Ms Vasilka Sabeva, representative of Ecology KM;
- Ms Martina Krasteva, representative of the Bulgarian Construction Chamber;
- Ms Ventsislava Chepisheva, representative of BKO Ltd.;
- Ms Maria Nakova, representative of Cleantech Bulgaria.
The speakers presented a range of national and European projects focused on innovation in vocational education and training, digital transformation, sustainability, and skills development.
The National Agency for Vocational Education and Training expresses its sincere gratitude to all participants for their active contribution, constructive discussions, and the exchange of valuable experience and good practices that continue to support the development of high-quality vocational education and training in Bulgaria.
