On 11 October 2024, the National Conference of ReferNet Bulgaria was held at Novotel Sofia. The event brought together representatives of key stakeholders in vocational education and training (VET) to discuss current European developments and future priorities for the sector.
The conference programme featured a range of topics, with a particular focus on the integration of artificial intelligence into vocational education and training and on enhancing the competences of VET teachers and trainers. Representatives of the Ministry of Education and Science presented the progress achieved under the “Modernisation of Vocational Education and Training” project, while participants contributed valuable ideas for future initiatives aimed at strengthening the VET system at national level.
Ms Petya Evtimova, Head of ReferNet Bulgaria, presented the network’s main achievements and key activities throughout 2024, highlighting its contribution to European cooperation and knowledge exchange in vocational education and training.
The conference also showcased significant European project initiatives and presented the key outcomes of the WorldSkills 2024 competition, emphasising the importance of excellence in skills development and international cooperation.
Among the participants were representatives of public institutions responsible for education and employment policies, employers’ organisations, trade unions, sectoral associations, as well as members of the Management Board and the Expert Commissions of the National Agency for Vocational Education and Training (NAVET). The event provided an important forum for dialogue, the exchange of good practices, and discussions on the future development of vocational education and training in Bulgaria and across Europe.