On the first day of ESG Career Week, October 13, 2025, the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” hosted a leadership discussion titled “The New Generation of Green Professionals”. The event was dedicated to the role of education and business in building a sustainable society. It brought together representatives from academia, government institutions, and schools to discuss how young people can develop the skills and competencies necessary for the future of sustainable development.

In the opening remarks, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Marina Stefanova, Vice-Dean for Sustainability, Empowerment and Engagement, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Atanas Georgiev, Dean of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, emphasized that sustainability is no longer an additional topic but a fundamental element of modern education and the economy. They highlighted the importance of an interdisciplinary approach that combines digital skills, social responsibility, and environmental awareness in the preparation of future professionals.

The discussion outlined that change begins at school. Participants shared that an increasing number of educational institutions are incorporating sustainability topics into their curricula and extracurricular activities. Representatives from the National High School in Finance and Business presented successful examples — as early as 1992, the school established its first training company, and in 2022 it became a sustainable one, focusing on environmental and social projects.

It was emphasized that schools with a clear vision and proactive teams can be true drivers of change. One of the main goals is to build holistic thinking among students — the ability to manage change, understand the interconnections between the economy, society, and the environment, and act responsibly.

Among the key topics of the forum was the development of ESG professions — related to environmental, social, and corporate governance. It was discussed that such positions are still not officially introduced in public administration, but the business sector is increasingly seeking specialists in this field. Companies need experts who can apply sustainability principles across all aspects of their operations — from environmental standards and social policies to accountability and corporate ethics.

The discussion also traced the historical development of sustainability education in Bulgaria — from the first environmental programs in 1991 to the integration of sustainable development into educational standards in 2001. These steps laid the foundation for modern teaching practices that merge economic education with the values of sustainable thinking.

Participants highlighted the need for close cooperation between education, business, and institutions to ensure practical training and real opportunities for young people. Mrs. Elena Marinova, Director of the National High School in Finance and Business, shared her vision for expanding partnerships and introducing more practical activities, including topics related to artificial intelligence. It was underlined that the future requires well-prepared professionals who not only master technologies but also know how to use them responsibly.

In conclusion, the discussion outlined a clear trend: sustainable development is no longer an abstract idea but a concrete direction for education, business, and society. To achieve real change, young people must develop digital and environmental literacy, critical thinking, and creativity — qualities that will make them active participants in building a more sustainable world.

For more information about green professions, visit the Kauzi Foundation website: https://greenjobscareer.eu/
Video from the event: https://youtu.be/9fQxSRQaxMQ?si=eeswW0bQC-FjIpGK