06.06.2025
Bulgarian EU Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva, responsible for start-ups, research, and innovation in the second von der Leyen Commission, highlighted the joint master’s program of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration and the Faculty of Physics at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” – “Nuclear Technologies, Management, and Innovations” – as a forward-looking example. This was part of her video address at the opening of the conference organized by the Bulgarian Atomic Forum (BULATOM). In her remarks, Mrs. Zaharieva pointed out the new SU program as a positive example of innovation in the field of nuclear education and research.
“Just recently, the European Commission presented an updated roadmap for diversification. Its goal is to accelerate the break from our dependence on Russian fossil fuels, including nuclear fuel and spare parts. The Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant already has long-term contracts for alternative fuel for its two units, and the first deliveries were made last year. We have proven that it is possible to ensure both Bulgarian and European strategic independence. I believe that the sector as a whole is on the brink of a true renaissance, and the development of new technologies will completely transform the market and business models”, Zaharieva stated.
She emphasized her ambition to expand the activities of the European Innovation Council, aiming to fund more projects, support start-ups – including those working on nuclear fusion – and strengthen the European research area.
“First and foremost in these efforts is ensuring safety, but also facilitating standardization and permitting, reducing regulatory barriers, and strengthening the single European market – all elements that hinder innovation in other sectors as well. Unfortunately, in Bulgaria, there have been many nuclear energy conferences over the past 30 years, but not a single new reactor. We talk only about the prospects of purchasing something from somewhere, and almost never about scientific developments, industrial production, or human capital.
The new master’s program at Sofia University, “Nuclear Technologies, Management, and Innovations”, is a good example of forward-looking thinking. The Commission will soon prepare a comprehensive analysis of the full spectrum of skills and qualifications needed in the nuclear field across Europe”, Zaharieva announced.
She added that Europe urgently needs to focus on education and the training of personnel for the nuclear sector, including attracting talent from around the world.