In mid-March, representatives of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University met with the team of the Bulgarian organization “Rodina” – Sydney and members of the Bulgarian community in Sydney, Australia. The meeting provided an opportunity to share insights about the development of Bulgarian higher education and the opportunities offered by the Faculty, which is celebrating the 35th anniversary of the restoration of its academic activity.

Mrs. Marina Mileva, Director of the Bulgarian School “Dr. Petar Beron” in Sydney, opened the event. A special guest of the meeting was H.E. Ambassador of Bulgaria in Australia - Encho Dimitrov, who spoke about the importance of Bulgarian education abroad.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Marina Stefanova and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Marcellin Yovogan presented the exceptional opportunities offered by the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration. Prof. Simeon Simoff from Western Sydney University shared his perspective on the collaboration between the two universities.

“We are practicing diplomacy through education”, said Assoc. Prof. Marina Stefanova, emphasizing the crucial role of higher education in building international relationships. She noted that it is extremely important for the Faculty that Bulgarians abroad know there is a place where they are welcomed and where their experience and achievements are valued.

Assoc. Prof. Stefanova also shared how the Faculty has developed over the years—from a beginning with 400 students to over 1,800 students today. Interest in the programs continues to grow thanks to the innovative curricula and the strong practical orientation they provide, she said. Almost everything is now digitalized, and students begin working directly with businesses from their very first year, which prepares them for the real-world work environment.

Assoc. Prof. Yovogan presented the educational opportunities available at the Faculty, including both bachelor's and master’s programs in Bulgarian and English. He also shared the Faculty's and the University’s broader development strategy, which focuses on internationalization and attracting more international students.

More about the activities of the cultural association “Rodina – Sydney” can be found here.