17.01.2025
A joint initiative of Sofia University’s Faculty of Economics and Business Administration (FEBA), its Burgas Branch, and the Vocational School for Computer Programming and Innovation (CPI) in Burgas is nominated for the “BAIT Awards 2024.”
At the end of 2024, Sofia University’s FEBA submitted its application for the prestigious “BAIT Awards 2024” competition. The nomination, filed jointly with the Burgas Branch of Sofia University and CPI, Burgas, is titled “Symbiosis for the Future: Science, Business, and Vocational Education for Technological Advancement”. The initiative is supported by the Municipality of Burgas and the technology leader Schwarz Global Services Bulgaria.
Out of 12 submissions in the “Educational Award” category, the innovative educational model, developed by FEBA in collaboration with the Burgas Branch and CPI, and supported by local authorities and leading businesses in Bulgaria, has been named one of the three nominated educational projects in the category. This was announced yesterday when the voting results were published: link. The awards ceremony will take place on February 26.
The joint initiative’s establishment and initial achievements have been creatively documented by director Vasil Lesov.
The innovative educational model has its roots nine years ago, with the establishment of the Career Center at FEBA in 2016. Over time, new, dynamic teaching methods were gradually introduced across various courses and master’s programs related to the application of digital technologies in business and finance. These methods combine theoretical knowledge, scientific approaches, and practical tasks through case studies developed in partnership with leading Bulgarian businesses.
This foundation naturally led to several successful partnerships with companies such as Schwarz Global Services Bulgaria, INDEAVR, KBC Global Services Bulgaria, Experian Bulgaria, and others. Among these is Sofia University’s first business-funded doctoral program: YouTube link. Over time, these achievements have opened new horizons, including the application of the innovative model to secondary technological education.
Since April 2023, FEBA, in collaboration with its Burgas Branch and CPI Burgas, has been working on adapting and expanding the model to vocational technological education. Establishing the University’s Burgas Branch facilitated community growth and provided a base for broader initiatives.
In December 2023, CPI Burgas was granted the status of a lyceum affiliated with Sofia University, marking the first time in the University’s history that an affiliated secondary school was established outside Sofia. This initiative enabled the transfer of competencies, scientific expertise, and high efficiency in joint activities.
The selection of the Vocational School for Computer Programming and Innovation was no coincidence. Established in 2018, it was the first vocational school in Bulgaria to offer a specialization in “Artificial Intelligence Programming”. The school distinguishes itself not only through its infrastructure but also through its innovative teaching approach, fostering creativity and the personal potential of its students. Moreover, its projects, inspired by the business world, often emphasize the connection between technology and entrepreneurship.
The lyceum initiative enjoys strong support from Schwarz Global Services Bulgaria, Sofia University’s key partner in artificial intelligence. The company has actively supported the innovative project, recognized by the Municipality of Burgas as a model of success and sustainability. The University’s Burgas Branch provides facilities for lectures and practical training and is a key partner for career forums and events in Burgas.
FEBA academic team is deeply involved in conducting specialized courses for CPI students, developing educational materials and case studies, mentoring competitions, organizing extracurricular activities to foster entrepreneurial skills, and providing career guidance. The Career Center actively expands students’ career opportunities through annual forums and initiatives.