The Rector of UNWE Dr. Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov welcomed the representatives from eight countries that are partners of our university in the ENGAGE.EU project.

UNWE is the host of a working session on the Work Package 7 - Dissemination and Social Impact led by the University within the framework of the European University ENGAGE.EU. The objective of the working session is to improve the visibility and results of the Alliance's activities and to measure their social impact.

The Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Assoc. Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov, Institutional Coordinator of ENGAGE.EU, Chief Assist. Dr. Yury Tsenkov, Head of Work Package 7 - Dissemination and Social Impact

In front of all 25 guests from Spain, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany, Austria, Norway and Finland Prof. Dimitrov outlined the importance and influence of the European alliances and the role of our university in them. "The UNWE is 105 years old and it is a typical business university with 8 Faculties and over 20 000 students. It is an honour for us to host this important session for the European Alliance ENGAGE.EU. We have been part of this European Alliance for 5 years and it is very important that together we have built a community that works for the benefit of lecturers, employees and students, for improving the quality of education and the universities development", pointed out the Rector Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov. "What we do as a university is important not only for ourselves, but for the society as a whole. The implementation of activities under the Dissemination and Social Impact Package is of particular importance. ENGAGE.EU is a challenging project with significant achievements. Sharing our experiences will help to strengthen the sense of a united community, to further develop the Alliance's communication, to increase its social impact on the European universities and to turn them into a strong driving force in Europe", emphasized Prof. Dimitrov. He announced that on 25 September 2024  at a solemn ceremony our university will award the honorary title of Doctor Honoris Causa of UNWE to Prof. Thomas Puhl, Rector of the Coordinating University of Mannheim, precisely for his services as a visionary and innovator in the development of the European University Alliance ENGAGE.EU.

The communication and social impact experts were also welcomed by the institutional coordinator of ENGAGE.EU Assoc. Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov. "We are proud that the UNWE hosts today's working session related to the Dissemination and Social Impact Package, for which our university is responsible, because we have one of the most important missions for the ENGAGE.EU Alliance - the dissemination of information and communication. What is so important: without our mission there will be no information about the ENGAGE.EU, no one will know about its existence, without our mission there will be no funding and without our mission there will be no ENGAGE.EU. So the better we fulfil our mission, the stronger the ENGAGE.EU Alliance will be. But we need to work together for it. I hope that we will have a fruitful discussion on how to increase the support for the work of the ENGAGE.EU Alliance", outlined Assoc. Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov.

The working session will last until 10 September 10 /Tuesday/ during which the results of the project, for which the UNWE is responsible, will be discussed and finalized. In October starts the second year of the Erasmus+ project in which the UNWE has participated for four years.

You can find out more information about the opportunities and activities provided by ENGAGE.EU on the official website.

The Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and the Chairperson of the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria Raya Nazaryan, who is a graduate of our university, opened the new academic year 2024/2025 at the UNWE.

The national, European and student anthem Gaudeamus Igitur gave the start of the solemn ceremony at the largest business university in Southeastern Europe.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petar Chobanov, Deputy Governor and Member of the BNB Board, Raya Nazaryan, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Simon Osei-Mensah, Minister for the Ashanti Region in the Government of Ghana, who is a graduate of the UNWE, Ilian Chabukliisky, Chairman of the Student Council at UNWE /from the left to the right/

Prof. Dimitrov welcomed the students, lecturers and employees pointing out that the UNWE had a record number of prospective students and a higher admission rate in the current year. The University can boast of successful prospective students campaign and admission of many more new students than expected. Prof. Dimitrov outlined that the UNWE has the highest accreditation assessment of all Bulgarian universities - 9.80 out of 10.00. An assessment that measures the quality of education and is a guarantee that the University provides the best, most profound and modern education. Prof. Dimitrov emphasized in particular that the UNWE has a virtual tour with a total area of over 54,000 m² - one of the largest virtual tours in the world. It features indoor navigation for the building allowing you to reach every single hall.

The Rector paid attention to the fact that the University has very good relations with the business world, which means that almost 100% of its graduates are taken on by the student bank.

Prof. Dimitrov emphasized that 12 Prime Ministers have graduated from the UNWE and that there is no government without at least three Ministers who have studied at the University.

"UNWE's century-old fame forces us to be modern. UNWE is the most digitized university in Bulgaria, all administrative services are available online, our students have digital study books that they carry with them on their cell phones. Being responsible for your future we actively support the green ideas. We have built a photovoltaic park, which is the largest ever built by an educational institution", outlined the Rector.

"It is an honour for me to be a graduate of UNWE because by studying here I will always be part of a family that has given to Bulgaria prominent scientists, politicians, diplomats, economists and lawyers", said Raya Nazaryan. She expressed thankfulness to the Managing body of the University for setting a high objective every year - to make the UNWE a leader in higher education. She greeted the first year students and wished them to make the best use of the knowledge and skills they would receive from the lecturers, to spare no efforts and to move forward. "In my experience, what I have learned here at the Law Faculty has given me such a solid knowledge and foundation that it is useful to me every day in my professional career", outlined Mrs. Nazaryan. "I believe in your success and remind you that your potential is truly the most valuable asset our country has", said the Chairperson of the National Assembly.

"The development of our country is not possible without a world-class education and a modern and high-quality Bulgarian science. Study, spare no efforts, set high goals, even go out of your comfort zone - this is the way to move forward", said also Mrs. Nazaryan.

The Deputy Governor and the BNB Board Member Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petar Chobanov, who is not only a graduate but also a lecturer at the UNWE, also delivered a speech at the opening of the new academic year.

"I remember my first days as a student at the UNWE speciality Macroeconomics. When I was admitted to this speciality I was told that it provides three options for a job - a lecturer, director or minister. At that times it seemed like a good option. I said to myself, okay, lecturer", noted Assoc. Prof. Dr. Petar Chobanov adding: "What is important in today's world, at least for me, is the network that we build - the network that we build among ourselves as lecturers, the big network with the students that continues developing as well as the fact that the Managing body of our university and the University itself has a vision of the way we go with the network we build in international scale with other universities. We see that we have already crossed the borders of our continent, we enter other continents and we continue to prove that we have something to give. To teach someone, you have to be convinced of yourself that you know something".

Among the official guests at the opening ceremony was Simon Osei-Mensah, Minister for the Ashanti Region in the Government of Ghana, who is also a graduate of our university. He greeted the attendees and wished the students to take advantage of the knowledge and opportunities provided by the UNWE and to be proud to become part of its large academic family.

Simon Osei-Mensah expressed his great joy to be back at his university: "I am very happy and excited to walk through the corridors of this prestigious university again, which I feel like my second home. I will never forget the qualitative education and the professional opportunities I have received at this university."

"The UNWE is an exceptional educational institution. The best in Bulgaria. I would say it is one of the best in Europe because together with Mr. Rector and my colleagues we participate in the programme and activities of ENGAGE.EU - the largest business university at European level, in which the UNWE is one of the founders and active participants. I really see the big difference in the level of different universities in Europe and I know that the UNWE always is the best", emphasized Maxim Behar, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of UNWE, adding: "I graduated from ten universities and I know that what I have learned at the UNWE, what I have seen here, my meetings with lecturers, with colleagues with whom we continue to meet and keep in touch every year - these are the most valuable years I have had. My advice to you can be only one - work hard from your first year. The combination of practice and what you will learn at the University is the best you can get".

"The excitement and joy I feel at this moment is shared by everyone in this hall, for today we begin a new journey in the knowledge, professional development and personal growth", said the Chairperson of the Student Council Ilian Chabukliysky, noting: "The UNWE Student Council has always been committed to supporting students and creating opportunities for their personal and professional development. I would like to express thankfulness to the Rector for the good partnership, as a result of which a number of changes have been made at the University and in the student dormitories”.

"Be proud of your choice and know that you are part of the centuries-old history of UNWE. I believe that soon the Wall of Fame will not be enough to collect all the names of the graduates of the University who have taken leading positions in Bulgaria and around the world", said Angel Stoykov, Chairman of the National Representation of Student Councils in the Republic of Bulgaria.

During the ceremony Kristian Ivanov, graduate of speciality Business Informatics, Bachelor's degree, who was admitted to the Master's programme in the same speciality with the highest score, handed over the book History of UNWE to Milena-Nadin Eddy Feschian - the first-year student who was admitted to the speciality Finance and Accounting taught in English with the highest score of 24.00.

"The beginning of the academic year is an exciting day because it marks a time of new ambitions, expectations and motivation for all those who are part of the UNWE academic community", said Kristian Ivanov, emphasizing: "The UNWE is not just an educational institution, it is a symbiosis between the rich history and traditions and the development opportunities that meet the modern challenges and needs of the globalized world we live in. I am proud to be a graduate of UNWE. The education I have received, together with the knowledge I have acquired, provides me with a good foundation for my professional realization and personal development. Dear first-year students, you are the bearers of newness, positive energy and optimism. At the University you will receive the support you need to develop and fulfill your potential. Show character, set high standards for yourselves and be true to yourselves".

Milena-Nadin Eddy Feschian pointed out that the UNWE is the right place for the first year students to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills, but also to be inspired by the amazing lecturers who will teach them. "We have made great efforts to earn our rightful place in the student community of the University. The competition was fierce and among us are winners of international and national Olympiads and competitions that have been accepted to many other universities around the world. We chose UNWE! Because we believe we will build the university's Ivy League with the invaluable mentorship and expertise of the lecturers. With the help of the established network of partnerships with the business community, we have the opportunity for the best career realization. I accept the book History of UNWE with a deep bow and a willingness to build on it and pass it on to the next generation of first-year students."

At the end of the ceremony the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov awarded the Commemorative coin 100 years of UNWE and diplomas to Gabriela Stoeva, student of speciality Media and Journalism, who together with her sister Stefany Stoeva have ranked fifth in the women's pairs race at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, and to the world record holder Georgy Peev, student of speciality Management and Administration, who, with two transplanted organs - a heart and a kidney - won four gold medals at the European Transplant Championships in the four swimming disciplines of 50 and 100 breaststroke and 50 and 100 freestyle.

"The UNWE is the university with the best social policy in Bulgaria which gives disadvantaged people a great opportunity to develop and find professional realization. This is my wish to all of you - keep building on all your life and be aware that the past is just a good memory, so run towards tomorrow", said Georgy Peev.

At the opening ceremony in Maxima Aula were representatives of the Academic Council, Prof. Dr. Matilda Alexandrova, Vice Rector for Educational Activities, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Vodenicharova, Vice Rector for Research, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Prof. Dr. Tsvetana Stoyanova, Vice-Rector for Institutional and Business Cooperation and Student Policies, Assistant Rector Prof. Dr. Kiril Stoychev, Prof. D.Sc. Pencho Penchev, Chairman of the UNWE General Assembly, Prof. Dr. Daniela Feschian, Chairman of the UNWE Control Council, Prof. Dr. Lalko Dulevsky, Ombudsman of UNWE, Deans, Heads of Departments, Secretaries General, lecturers, employees, representatives of the Board of Trustees of the UNWE, Directors of schools partners of UNWE. The ceremony was attended by the Governor of Vidin town Anny Harutyunyan, also a graduate and PhD from the UNWE, as well as the Chairman of the Municipal Council of Tsaribrod Municipality Zoran Dzhurov.

The Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, the Chairperson of the National Assembly Raya Nazaryan and the official guests laid flowers at the monument of the founder and first Rector of UNWE Prof. Stephan Bobchev.

Before the opening of the new academic year the Rector Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov met with the Chairperson of the National Assembly of the Republic of Bulgaria Raya Nazaryan who wrote the UNWE Golden Book:

"To my alma mater with gratitude for the path we proudly follow and with the wish that the fountain of knowledge will not run dry and will ceaselessly inspire the worthy graduates.

The knowledge is a path that has a beginning and no end. Our pursuit of it is strength, and the strength is success."

The Rector of the UNWE awarded to Raya Nazaryan a prototype of the Golden Book of UNWE.

Raya Nazaryan awarded to the Rector an honorary plaque 145 Years of the National Assembly with the portrait of Antim the First, Chairman of the Constituent National Assembly.

The Interim Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Lyudmila Petkova sent a Greeting Address apologizing for not being able to attend the ceremony in person and wishing all a successful academic year. As a graduate of UNWE she expressed her excitement with the opening of a consecutive academic year. "The knowledge is a high value and making education a national priority is a guarantee for a developed modern society. The quality of education and the management of the learning process at our university over the years have formed proven professionals who are worthy to manage and to be leaders", is said in the Greeting Address. "It's up to you how much knowledge you will leave here with, but I want you to remember that Bulgaria needs young and knowledgeable experts and leaders", is the wish by Mrs. Lyudmila Petkova to the first year students.

Greeting Addresses were also received by the National Statistical Institute, Paisii Hilendarsky University of Plovdiv, Bishop Konstantin Preslavsky University of Shumen, the Higher School of Telecommunications and Post, the National School of Finance and Economics, Vasil Levsky Profiled High School - Yambol, DSK Bank, the Municipality of Teteven, etc.

After the solemn opening of the academic year, meetings between the first-year students and the Deans of Faculties and Heads of Departments were held.

Solemn Opening of the New Academic Year 2024/2025

VIDEO

The Vice Rector for Educational Activities of UNWE Prof. Dr. Matilda Alexandrova and the Director of UNWE Regional Centre for Distance Learning in Haskovo Prof. Dr. Nadia Mironova /in the picture below/ opened the new academic year with wishes to the students for health and success in acquiring new knowledge.

The Centre is specialized in distance learning and works with the most modern online learning systems. For the first time over 250 students will cross the threshold of the University to study in three Bachelor's degree programmes - Management and Administration, Economics, Accounting, and four Master's degree programmes - Business Administration, Communication Management, Local Government and Accounting and Control.

In her welcoming speech the Director of the Regional Centre Prof. Nadia Mironova emphasized the growing importance of the UNWE Centre in Haskovo as a place for education and training of the economic and managerial elite of the South Central region.

On behalf of the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and personally Prof. Matilda Alexandrova welcomed the new students to the large family of UNWE – the University with 105 years of history and tradition. She outlined the importance of modern facilities and the advantages of distance learning. The UNWE is also part of the European partner network and provides the opportunity to study abroad.

The Directors of the partner high schools had also come to greet the students. Gergana Petrova, Director of Acad. Boyan Petkanchin Natural and Mathematical High School of Haskovo, welcomed the students and assured them that they would have the most modern distance learning equipment in the country. Valentina Delcheva, Director of Natural and Mathematical High School of Dimitrovgrad, wished them success in acquiring new knowledge on the chosen specialities.

The Governor of Haskovo region Mehmed Ataman, the Head of the Regional Department of Education Silvia Kasabova and other officials were sent Greeting Addresses on the occasion of the opening of the new academic year.

Simeon Stamenov, speciality Management and Administration, addressed the audience on behalf of the first year students. He appealed his colleagues to remember the thought of American President John F. Kennedy more often: "It is not important what your country has given to you - it is more important what you have given to your country". He wished his colleagues to acquire the knowledge successfully and be useful to their country.

Good luck in the new academic year 2024/2025!

PHOTOGALLERY

The Dean of the Faculty of Finance and Accounting Prof. Dr. Rumen Brussarsky awarded to the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov a donation from Prof. Dr. Tsvetan Kolev. The donation includes the valuable archives of the working group that has developed the new structure of our university and prepared its transformation from an institute into a university.

The donation consists of 15 archival documents and will be kept in the UNWE Public Collection - History of UNWE.

Prof. Dr. Tsvetan Kolev is a long-time lecturer at the UNWE Economics Department and in 1990 he has led the group that was commissioned to develop a project for a new structure and transformation of Karl Marx Higher Institute of Economics into the University of National and World Economy.

The project was commissioned by Prof. Dr. Lalyo Radulov, who was the Rector of our university at that time.

A working group was set up to work out and present the overall vision for the establishment and development of the university with a package of documents for its new structure and activities. As part of the working process various options for the name of the university were discussed and the current name - University of National and World Economy - was adopted.

On the basis of the prepared project, at the end of November 1990 the Academic Council decided to transform Karl Marx Higher Economic Institute into the University of National and World Economy and in 1991 the new /departmental/ structure of the university was incorporated.

By a resolution of the 37^th National Assembly announced in the State Gazette No. 68 of 1 August 1995 Karl Marx  Higher Economic Institute was officially transformed into the University of National and World Economy.

The UNWE hosted the First Annual Conference of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network - SDSN Bulgaria on the Sustainable Development in the New Global Realities. During the Conference the youth section SDSN Youth Bulgaria was also launched to join the already existing 23 national and regional networks worldwide.

The Coordinator of SDSN Bulgaria, including 6 Bulgarian universities, is the UNWE and it is headed by Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE, and co-chaired by Assoc. Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov.

Chief Assist. Dr. Atanas Dimitrov, SDSN Bulgaria Manager, Andrija Erac, SDSN Networks Manager, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rosen Plevneliev, President of the Republic of Bulgaria /2012-2017/, Assoc. Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov, Gabriela Naskova, SDSN BulgariaManager

Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov reminded that in 2023 the UNWE has become the Coordinator of the National Sustainable Development Solutions Network - SDSN Bulgaria - established by the UN to promote the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals of the world organization, and that the UNWE is one of the first universities in Bulgaria to seriously engage in the implementation of the green energy. "The establishment of a renewable energy system is part of our university's policy and a step towards becoming a green university. What we do in the field of sustainable development is not only in the frameworks of SDSN. There are also other organizations working in this direction, such as the Bulgarian network of the UN Global Compact, and we have recently joined the initiative of Sofia Municipality for climate neutrality, sustainability and innovation in climate governance, and thus we all move together in the right direction."

"I feel at home at the UNWE, but I have to take my responsibility as President, and what Presidents do - they talk to people, visit universities, point out the lessons from their experiences, and therefore I am grateful for the opportunity to share my ideas and activities with you today", outlined Rosen Plevneliev, President of the Republic of Bulgaria /2012-2017/. "I am proud to be among people who care about the future of our planet. Therefore, I welcome all delegates who have come from different countries to participate in today's very important conference and to join in the search for important solutions for the future of the world. As a member of the Advisory Council of the Azerbaijani Presidency of the UN Climate Summit to be held in Baku in November, I am responsible for all the negotiating teams as we strive to reach a consensus. So I promise you that everything you discuss and decide today at this important conference will be presented to the forum in Baku."

Angel Stoykov, Chairman of the National Representation of Student Councils /NRSC/, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to talk about the young people point of view on the sustainable development and how they can help. According to a recent survey by the NRSC and NGOs on how the young people aged 15-29 perceive their problems, where they are in their development and their mental health, worrying facts were revealed - over 40% of young people are not worried about the future of the world but about their financial situation, over 46% describe themselves as addicted to alcohol, drugs and digital devices. "I say this because when we think about the sustainable development, we need to reach out to young people to guide them towards the goals we set ourselves in order to have truly sustainable development in the future. When we set goals today, we have to think about who will implement them tomorrow", added Angel Stoykov.

Prof. Dr. Matilda Alexandrova, Vice Rector for Educational Activities, Angel Stoykov, Chairman of the National Representation of Student Councils, Ilian Chabukliysky, Chairman of the Student Council, the ASECU President Prof. Grigoris Zarothiadis, Member of SDSN Black Sea Management Board

The Chairman of the Student Council Ilian Chabukliisky said he was pleased to represent the student community and share its commitment to building a sustainable future. "The theme of the Conference is timely because the world we live in changes economically, socially and environmentally at an extraordinary pace. The global challenges require us to take a new approach for solving them. It is not only the responsibility of the governments and companies, but also the responsibility of us - young people. We have realized that sustainability is not just a goal, but a path to a fairer and more sustainable world, so I am glad that today we can be part of this important discussion for the future."

The most important part of the forum was the announcement of SDSN Youth Bulgaria. On this occasion, Raquel Armendariz Sukunza, SDSN Youth Associate, noted in her speech: "I am honored to announce the launch of SDSN Youth Bulgaria because I believe that the Bulgarian youths are fully prepared to deal with all the challenges that we, the young people, face in today's dynamically changing world. Our mission is to encourage the young people to play an active role in shaping a sustainable future for the next generations. Why are the young people so important? They are billions now and they are the generation that must shape the sustainable development policies and find solutions to protect our planet. Bulgaria has proven its strong commitment to the SDGs and we are convinced that Bulgaria's young people are full of potential, innovative ideas and willingness to work hard and will contribute to strengthen the entire SDSN Youth".

Sofia Vassileva and Nikolay Boshnakov have been appointed as Coordinators of SDSN Youth Bulgaria.

Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov with representatives of SDSN Youth Вulgaria: Atanas Radev, Raquel Armendariz Sukunza, Sofia Vassileva, Nikolay Boshnakov, Gabriela Naskova

In her speech Sofia Vassileva emphasized that "SDSN Youth is a global network that connects young leaders who share common values and are committed to the SDGs, so by launching SDSN Youth Bulgaria, we not just launch a network, we launch a platform where ideas, innovation and determination can flourish."

Nikolay Boshnakov said he was honoured to be the Coordinator of SDSN Youth Bulgaria. "It is exciting to be part of a team of visionaries and leaders - your peers who share common values, views and ideas for the future. In my opinion, the SDGs are not just goals, but a call for empathy and solidarity that leads to a change in mindset", said the new SDSN Coordinator.

Prof. Dr. Tsvetana Stoyanov, Vice Rector for Institutional and Business Cooperation and Student Policies, Prof. Dr. Miroslava Peycheva, Bulgarian Network of the UN Global Compact, Prof. Dr. Tilcho Ivanov - one of the founders of the National and Regional Security Department and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetla Boneva, Dean of the International Economics and PoliticsFaculty

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov, Vice Rector for International Affairs /the second man from the right), lecturers and employees

Among the guests were also Prof. Dr. Daniela Feschian, Chairman of the UNWE Control Council, lecturers, students.

Andrija Erac, Head of Networks Team at SDSN, took part by report on the Leveraging Global Experiences for Local Impact: SDSN Networks in Action. He emphasized that the main driving force of the SDSN Networks are young people and that the biggest contribution for the future is to involve more and more young people in the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The keynote speaker of the event was Maria Cortes-Pugh, Vice President of the Networking Program at SDSN, who connected online. She delivered a presentation on How to Achieve the SDGs in a Changing World, in which she provided specific data on the implementation of the United Nations SDGs. She also highlighted Bulgaria's achievements on SDG 15, emphasized that the main problem is not implementing the SDGs in time and pointed out that it is necessary to focus on finding more and more technological solutions.

The President of ASECU Prof. Grigoris Zarotiadis, member of the Management Board of SDSN Black Sea, delivered a report entitled From Thessaloniki Sustainability Summit in 2024 to the Future Summit in New York in 2024: What to Do in the Black Sea Region, in which he highlighted the activities of ASECU in the framework of the implementation of the UN SDG`s and underlined the role of the Black Sea region for sustainable development worldwide.

The forum was attended by the Chairperson of the State Agency for Refugees Mariana Tosheva, the Deputy Mayor of Sofia Municipality for Green System, Ecology and Land Use Nadezhda Bobcheva; Chief Assist. Dr. Kristian Zhelev, SDSN Leadership Council; Roberto Santorelli, President of Confindustria Bulgaria; Raquel Armendaris Sucunza, SDSN Secretariat, responsible for the development of the SDSN Youth Networks; Patrick Kyhos, US cybersecurity expert and former White House and FBI official; the Deputy Foreign Minister of Libya's Interim Government Abdulhadi Lahweej and the Director of International Cooperation Directorate at the University of Benghazi Nasser Abdelkadir.

The Conference was divided into three panels aimed at engaging specific stakeholders in achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The Rector Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov and Assoc. Prof. Yanko Hristozov met with Dr. Abdulhadi Lahweej, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in the Interim Government of Libya /the fourth man from the left/ and John Dalli, EU Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection /2012/ /the sixth man from the left/ - speakers at the event

The Rector gave as presents to Dr. Abdulhadi Lahweej and to John Dalli neckties bearing the UNWE logo.

The University of National and World Economy hosted a Bulgarian-Chinese Rectors' Forum for Cooperation and Exchange to create new, mutually beneficial forms of academic and scientific interaction and to expand the partnership with higher education institutions from China.

At the beginning of the Forum the children's choir of Evlogy and Hristo Georgiev Private Secondary School with intensive study of the Chinese language performed Chinese songs.

The event is organized in cooperation with the Embassy of the People's Republic of China and the China Education Association for International Exchange. Guests of honor at the event were the Deputy Minister of Education and Science Acad. Prof. Nikolay Vitanov and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the Republic of Bulgaria H.E. Ms. Dai Qingli.

"The purpose of this forum is to build new, mutually beneficial forms of academic and scientific interaction and to expand the partnership with universities from China", said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov, Vice-Rector for International Affairs of UNWE and moderator of the event adding: "UNWE has a tradition of enrolling foreign students from the People's Republic of China under several dual degree programmes and the students of these programmes show a great desire to actively participate in the academic life of the University by excelling in the academic content, but also gradually becoming true ambassadors of our shared ideas and values and they continue participating, even in their professional lives, in our various initiatives and campaigns, for which we are sincerely grateful to them".

"Today we present at a historic event that will be talked about for a long time as a turning point in the educational policies of both countries. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Bulgaria and China, it is especially important that we focus our forum on the exchange of students, lecturers and educational practices", said the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov emphasizing: "Our university leads a sustainable policy of international cooperation, including with Chinese universities. We work with 6 Chinese universities and provide dual Master's degree programmes in International Business and Management taught in English with Shanghai Zhao Tong University and a dual Bachelor's degree programme in Economics taught in English with Tianjin Foreign Studies University".

"The Ministry of Education and Science has established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China for 75 years. Since then, the two countries have maintained good relations and partnerships in the fields of economy and trade, agriculture, science and technology, culture and education", said Acad. Prof. Nikolay Vitanov, Deputy Minister of Education and Science, referring to the Agreement of Cooperation in the field of education between the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China and the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science signed on 23 June 2020 which has given an additional impetus to the educational and scientific cooperation between the two countries and includes the exchange of professionals, language training and scientific research, especially in the higher education.

"The successful organization of today's event underlines the close cooperation between the two countries in the field of education and their common vision to deepen the educational exchange and development. The education is the cornerstone of national development and the innovation is the key to modernize a country", said H.E. Ms. Dai Qingli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People's Republic of China to the Republic of Bulgaria and added: "Bulgaria is an important partner of China in the region of Central and Eastern Europe. In recent years, the universities of the two countries have deepened their cooperation and actively promoted a number of projects, such as academic exchanges, joint research and mutual visits by lecturrers and students, which have given new impetus to the development of education in both countries".

"In recent years the cooperation between China and Europe in the field of education has continued to deepen and has achieved remarkable results", said Fu Bo, Deputy Secretary-General of the China Education Association for International Exchange. "In today's world the global climate change is intensifying, regional conflicts continue and the human peace and development are faced to enormous challenges. In this context, strengthening the pragmatic cooperation between China and Bulgaria in the fields of education, science, technology and talents will not only help to improve the quality and level of higher education in both countries but also to promote the development of both countries in the fields of economy, culture, science and technology. We look forward to deepening the cooperation with Bulgarian higher education institutions in the following three areas: academic exchanges between lecturers and students, promoting the joint training of talents at high level and promoting the digitalization of education." She concluded with the Chinese proverb: "It takes ten years to grow trees and a hundred years to cultivate people". She added that "we need to show a more open mind, a more pragmatic style and a more innovative thinking to promote the continuous development of cooperation in education. I believe that with the joint efforts of all the cooperation between China and Bulgaria in the field of education will surely achieve more fruitful results".

The participants were also greetd by Prof. Dr. Miglena Temelkova, Chairperson of the Council of Rectors of Higher Education Institutions in the Republic of Bulgaria. She pointed out that this forum is extremely important for both the Bulgarian and Chinese educational systems, as there is much to build on. "I hope that after today's forum, the universities that have signed cooperation agreements will start to develop their activities in a bilateral direction and will achieve the goals they have set. They will implement deeper and broader cultural exchanges, exchange of students in various programmes and will expand their visions about their future development."

In relation to the organization of the Forum Mrs. Fu Bo awarded to the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov a medal of appreciation.

The event was attended by representatives from 55 Chinese and 20 Bulgarian universities and some of the Bulgarian universities signed memoranda of cooperation with the Chinese universities.

The UNWE signed four Memoranda of Cooperation - with Lanzhou University of Finance and Economy, Wuhan University of Technology, Nanyang Normal University and Nanjing Tech University.

The Forum continued with three plenary sessions in the following thematic fields: promoting digitalization in higher education, opportunities and challenges in promoting the educational mobility of students and employees and deepening the research cooperation.

Before the event the pupils of the children's choir of Evlogy and Hristo Georgiev Private Secondary School led by Mrs. Gergana Kirilova, Director of the Rector`s Office walked through the UNWE and visited the University Library

PHOTOGALLERY

The Map of Higher Education puts obstacles for the new specialities, says the Rector of the UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov in an interview for the 24 Hours newspaper.

Prof. Dimitrov, in just a few years the word "cybersecurity" has become the mantra of modern business, is your university ready to meet these expectations?

Our university reacted quite timely and quite adequately. A few years ago we started the preparation for the speciality Cybersecurity and e-Government and the related Master's degree programme in Cybersecurity Management. Unfortunately, the education is now quite heavily regulated and does not allow rapid implementation of new programmes. We have been struggling for 2 and a half years to get accreditation because we wait for the places in the other universities to be filled according to the notorious Map of Higher Education and then the Ministry of Education to allow us to get accreditation. But hackers don't need accreditation! This should be clear to all stakeholders. Having in mind that we are ready with the entire programme for the specialty, that the financial sector and all business companies look for such specialists trained in our university because it is a benchmark for the quality of education, we can`t train such specialists. This is nonsense.

After all, the University prepares cybersecurity specialists?

Yes, we have found some way to train Bachelor students even now - through a joint programme with the Thrace University. We have trained maybe 200 people in our Master's degree programme. It is registered at the European Cybersecurity Agency and we have international lecturers. Our lecturers and researchers also have vast experience, show remarkable capabilities, and the UNWE impelements cybersecurity audits of large companies, including those of the country's strategic infrastructure.

In addition to our educational efforts, we organize many additional activities for our students - hackathons and competitions held in collaboration with business organizations. We have signed over 20 contracts with leading companies in the field of information security and cybersecurity. We make a lot of efforts, but we want these efforts to be supported by the Ministry of Education and Science and the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency, because, I repeat once again, hackers do not need accreditation and this creates big problems.

And has the University itself secured its cyberdefence?

We are a very digitalized university. The services we provide online are certainly over 30 - enrollment, application, payment, dormitories, grade checking, transcripts, digital student files, digital ledgers, virtual switchboard, new superfast network. However, all of this requires tremendous maintenance and adjustments that need to be done by specialists. We have also had cyber incidents related to information security. We cope with them. But it should be clear that the companies have enormous difficulty to finding staff, and we ourselves also have trouble to find staff for our IT Directorate.

Does the UNWE provide services in this sector?

We continue to develop in this direction. We are also going to work on programmes of the Ministry of Innovation and Growth to provide this service to SMEs. It is also key for us to develop this business part of our educational capacity.

At the same time, we have a Competence Centre funded by the European Commission under a project on big data in the field of economics. We work together with 6 other universities in Sofia on superfast computing and data processing. We await to get an approval for the second phase of this project on big data economies, where more than 15 million leva have already been invested.

A working meeting with representatives of leading Chinese higher education institutions was held today at our university. The event was another step in UNWE's efforts to expand its international partnerships and strengthen its relations with China. The focus of the event was on student exchange, joint educational programmes and research projects.

The meeting was attended by representatives from prestigious Chinese universities, including the University of International Business and Economics, Beijing University of Technology and Business, North China University of Technology, Beijing Polytechnic University and Beijing University of International Studies. These universities are among the largest and most established in China, and their participation underlines the importance of the meeting and the desire for closer cooperation with the UNWE.

During the event the existing partnerships were assessed. UNWE has an active Master's degree programme with Shanghai Zhao Tong University and Bachelor's degree programme with Tianjin Forign Studies University. These programmes provide students with the opportunity to complete their studies in both Bulgaria and China giving them a competitive advantage and better prospects for professional development in a global environment.

Specific joint training and research projects with the Beijing University of Technology and Business, with which a new cooperation agreement was signed last week, were also discussed. This agreement, signed by the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and the Vice Rector of UNWE for International Affairs Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov during an official visit to China, reflects the long-standing relations between the two institutions and includes plans for new educational programmes and research initiatives to enrich both Bulgarian and Chinese students and lecturers.

Today's meeting was another opportunity to strengthen the relations between the UNWE and the University of International Business and Economics, with which negotiations to expand the cooperation and create new student exchange programmes are in progress. These initiatives are based on previous successful joint projects and the desire to deepen the academic exchanges in the field of economics and business.

Cooperation with the Hebei University of Economics and Business was also discussed at the meeting, and negotiations to sign a memorandum of cooperation are also in progress. This memorandum would allow the creation of new joint programmes and projects aimed at enriching the academic life and cultural exchange between the two institutions.

Although Hristo and Evlogy Georgiev School did not participate directly in today's meeting, references were made to the impressive performance of its students at the Bulgarian-Chinese Rectors' Forum, which was held on 14 October 2024 at the UNWE. Then students from the School studying Chinese greeted the Forum participants with songs in Chinese and Bulgarian, demonstrating their knowledge and cultural affinity with China. The Forum brought together university leaders from Bulgaria and China, establishing the UNWE as a center of international academic exchange.

The Vice Rector for International Affairs Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov and the Director of International Affairs Directorate Dr. Milen Markov

Today's events and the recently signed agreements show the long-term commitment of the UNWE to strengthening the relations with China. The University continues to develop new initiatives and expand the scope of its international partnerships which creates new opportunities for students and lecturers and contributes to establishing the UNWE as a leading educational institution in the region.

The Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov signed a Cooperation Agreement with Mirzo Ulugbek National University of Uzbekistan. The delegation from Uzbekistan was led by the Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Shuhrat Amonovich who was accompanied by Javlonbek Madatov, Head of the Department for Organizing International Cooperation, and Jasurbek Alisherovich, Head of the Department of Organization of the Credit System of Education.

On behalf of UNWE in the meeting took part Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov, Vice-Rector for International Affairs, Dr. Milen Markov, Director of International Affairs Directorate, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asya Pandzhernova and Chief Assist. Dr. Svetoslav Kaleychev, lecturers at the Economics of Tourism Department.

During the meeting were discussed the possibilities for launching a dual Bachelor's degree programme in the field of tourism which will be aimed at students from Uzbekistan, who, in addition to studying at the UNWE, will also get opportunities for practical internships in enterprises of the tourism sector. The negotiations are at an advanced stage and the final clauses of the contract are yet to be signed. The delegation shared excellent impressions of the interesting and up-to-date programmes that the UNWE provides for its students as well as the modern and impressive facilities.

The Rector of UNWE was awarded as a gesture of respect a special gift - a national costume of Uzbekistan. The three-day visit of the delegation from Uzbekistan includes a rich additional programme - meetings with lecturers and students of UNWE, a tour of the campus, visits to cultural events.

The Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov officially opened the Second Plenary Session of the XIX International Scientific Conference of Young Scientists on the Economy of Bulgaria and the European Union: Challenges, Conflicts, Solutions.

Prof. Dr. Sylvia Trifonova, Vice Dean for Research of the Finance and Accounting Faculty , Prof. Dr. Rumen Brussarski, Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE and Ilian Chabukliisky, Chairman of the Student Council at UNWE

"This Conference is remarkable for it has been running for 19 years, expanding its partnership boundaries and bringing together not only young scientists but also experienced, leading figures in the science and practice. The UNWE continuously promotes research not only because we are assessed by the number of publications and ratings, but also because we have an obligation to society and especially to the young people - our students. We have to teach them new things, alternative currencies, various financial instruments, dozens of interesting things that are not described in textbooks, but can be learnt at such international scientific forums, where interesting papers are presented, seminars and discussions are held", said Prof. Dimitrov and expressed special thankfulness to the Finance and Accounting Faculty for the good organization.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Radostin Vazov from the Faculty of Economics of St. Climent Ohridsky University of Sofia, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gergana Mihaylova-Borisova, Head of the Finance Department, Prof. Dr. Sylvia Trifonova, Prof. Dr. Rumen Brussarski, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and Ilian Chabukliisky

"The research of young people, of young scientists who are highly educated, can contribute for finding the right solutions in today's world of challenges and conflicts. For this year's Conference 150 papers have been submitted, a huge part of them are extremely interesting, actual and very valuable", said the Dean of the Faculty Prof. Dr. Rumen Brussarski, and Ilian Chabukliisky added that the role of young scientists is extremely important at moment like that when the world is faced to unstable economic conditions, structural changes and an urgent necessity of sustainable development.

"Congratulations from the Faculty of Economics of St. Climent Ohridsky University of Sofia for this wonderful conference”, said Assoc. Prof. Dr. Radostin Vazov from the Statistics and Econometrics Department of the Economics Faculty of Sofia University, which is the co-organizer of the scientific event since the current year.

"Not every one of you will develop a scientific career, some of you will get into the real business", addressed to the young people participating in the Conference Prof. Dr. Stoyan Prodanov, lecturer at D. A. Tsenov Economic Academy of Svishtov, and Executive Director of Bul Ins, assuring them that the efforts they put to prepare their reports are not in vain. "The business appreciates everything a person does to build itself as a person, including the fact that someone is involved in science. That's how you build your capital and you will be more competitive tomorrow", added Prof. Prodanov.

Prof. Dr. Andrey Zahariev, Chairman of the Board of Prof. Dr. Minko Rusev Academic Foundation, noted that every sailor dreams to become a captain and added: "It is important to have positions in your CV that show you have no fear of public appearances. Grow, be bold, rely on your professors, on your university, which is a wonderful institution, on the Rector of UNWE, which is a symbol of sustainability and security".

The XIX International Scientific Conference was also attended by Dr. Boyko Takov, Executive Director of the Executive Agency for Promotion of Small and Medium Business and lecturer at the UNWE, who advised young people to read more business literature where they can find examples of Bulgarian companies at the global level, which work extremely successfully in international markets.

Prof. Dr. Stoyan Prodanov, Prof. Dr. Andrey Zahariev and Dr. Boyko Takov

The Head of the Finance Department Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gergana Mihaylova-Borisova shared her excitement as it was the first scientific forum in which she had participated as a PhD student. "It is a conference gaining success and good results. I am convinced that this is the Forum where you can really share your ideas and expectations and I appeal you to do so, because you, the young scientists, are the future, you will develop the economy. Share your ideas and discuss them."

"I am extremely excited to be reading a report. This is the first time I participate in such a large International Forum with my paper on Key Risky Events in Citigroup. I study Finance and Accounting taught in English at the UNWE. It is very nice, but it is also very difficult. We have great lecturers but you also must read a lot", said our student Krasimir Mihaylov before the session where he had to present his work.

More than 120 lecturers and students from the UNWE took part in the XIX International Scientific Conference - Professors, Associate Professors, Chief Assistants, Assistants, PhD students, PhD candidates, Master`s and Bachelor`s degree students. The Conference sessions were also attended by many foreign students carrying out mobility at the University under the Erasmus+ Programme, from Italy, Spain, Germany, the Netherlands and other countries.

"The institutional cooperation that we develop with Bulgarian universities and six foreign universities, namely with the University of Bologna, Italy, the Faculty of Economics, Business and Tourism of the University of Split, Croatia, Poltava University of Economics and Trade, Ukraine, Lutsk National Technical University, Ukraine, the Faculty of Economics and Business of the University of Rijeka, Croatia, and Ss. Cyril and Methodius State University of Economics, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia is a very important prerequisite for the success of the Conference. We should not forget the cooperation with economic and financial structures, such as the Bulgarian National Bank, the Bulgarian Stock Exchange, the National Statistical Institute, banks, trading companies and others. I think that there is no other international conference held in Bulgaria with so many and reputable co-organizers - universities and institutions, which is a guarantee for its success and future", said Prof. Dr. Silvia Trifonova, the main organizer of the International Forum from the very beginning.

The UNWE hosted a group of students from Hebei University, China. From 4 to 9 November 2024 they took part in a one-week academic exchange under the patronage of the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov. The Vice-Rector for International Affairs Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov personally committed the Programme of the visit to provide the students with lots of opportunities for both academic and cultural enrichment.

The visit of the Chinese students included a number of academic lectures and seminars delivered by UNWE lecturers in English. The topics covered key areas such as innovation, international financial management, business strategies and contemporary challenges facing the global economy. These academic sessions aroused great interest among the students of Hebei University, who expressed their admiration for the dynamic teaching style, innovative ideas and in-depth content of the lectures. Many of them said that the material was not only extremely useful but also motivating. The Chinese students found the lectures not only useful but also inspiring giving them new ideas for personal and professional development.

One of the most interesting events in the programme was the special seminar, organized with the participation of representatives from Southwestern Advantage, which was attended by the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and the Vice-Rector for International Affairs Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov. They welcomed the guests from Hebei University, expressing their optimism about the new opportunities for exchange of academic knowledge and ideas between the two institutions. Their welcoming words created a warm atmosphere and emphasized the importance of the international partnership for the UNWE. The lecture delivered by Southwestern Advantage impressed the Chinese students with its practical approach.

As part of the cultural programme the students visited the National History Museum and the Archaeological Museum in Sofia, where them were shown expositions by guides who introduced them to the rich cultural and historical heritage of Bulgaria. They also took a walking tour of the capital's most notable sites, learning more about Bulgarian culture and traditions.

During the visit the Chinese students were warmly welcomed by both the lecturers and the students of UNWE. From the very first day friendships were formed between the guests and their Bulgarian colleagues that will continue beyond the one-week visit. For them, this academic week left not only valuable knowledge and inspiration, but also unforgettable memories and friendships.

The guests from Hebei University expressed their gratitude to the hosts and said that the visit had exceeded their expectations, giving them the opportunity to see the educational process at UNWE and to get acquainted with Bulgaria in an unforgettable way. Both sides expressed confidence that this event lays the foundations for a long-term and fruitful cooperation between the two educational institutions - a partnership that will bring new opportunities for knowledge and experience exchange in the future.

The UNWE and SDSN Bulgaria hosted the ENGAGE.EU Third International Scientific Conference for Young Scientists on the Responsible Production and Consumption: Current Issues and Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals /Goal 12/.

The major objective of the Conference is to bring together early stage researchers /e.g. junior lecturers, postdoctoral students and postgraduate researchers/ who are part of ENGAGE.EU partner universities and who are interested in the current status and challenges of the UN SDGs. The event aims to facilitate the communication and future collaboration between the representatives of these target groups as well as to attract the stakeholders among the SDSN Bulgaria member universities. Participants have the opportunity to meet in person or online in an international forum with a strong presence of colleagues with similar interests and to present their current work or completed studies.

Prof. Dr. Venelin Boshnakov, Dean of the Applied Informatics and Statistics Faculty and Coordinator of the ENGAGE.EU scientific activities at the UNWE, greeted the attendees on behalf of the Rector of the UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and emphasized that the UNWE for the third consecutive year hosts the ENGAGE.EU International Scientific Conference for Young Scientists, this time is in cooperation with SDSN Bulgaria. Prof.Boshnakov reminded that last year the theme of the Conference was also related to the Sustainable Development Goals but the focus of the reports and discussions was Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth: Current Issues and Progress. The theme of the current Forum - Responsible Production and Consumption: Current Issues and Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals /Goal 12/ - is extremely important in the context of the green transition because it will provide an opportunity for young scientists to exchange ideas and discuss issues related to the green production, sustainable consumption, circular and green economy.

Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov, Co-Chair of SDSN Bulgaria and ENGAGE.EU Institutional Coordinator for UNWE, pointed out that our university is proud to be part of the European University Network ENGAGE.EU and to host this special event aimed at young scientists and researchers. He drew attention to the actuality of the topic and expressed his conviction that the papers and discussions would contribute to the search and finding of solutions for sustainable development.

Prof. D.Sc. Michail Musov and Prof. Dr. Venelin Boshnakov /from the left to the right/

The work of the Scientific Conference was organized in two days. Moderators of the event were Prof. Dr. Venelin Boshnakov and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetla Boneva, Dean of the International Economics and Politics Faculty of UNWE.

The keynote speaker on the first day of the Conference was Prof. Dr. Bistra Boeva, lecturer at the International Economic and Business Department.

The thematic areas within the Conference Programme were related to the clean production, policies to separate the economic growth from the resource use and environmental degradation, minimizing the exploitation of natural resources throughout the production and consumption process, circular economy, sustainable business models, re-manufacturing, recycling or recovering products and materials, policies promoting the sustainable production, green economy, encouraging the innovation to reduce energy consumption and overall pressure on natural resources, sustainable consumption, minimizing the use of toxic materials, waste and pollutants generated by mass consumption, policies promoting the consumption of environmentally friendly products with biodegradable components and lower energy costs.

Students from the UNWE took part in the first edition of Study Tour Universitat Ramon Llull /URL/, Barcelona, organized by the newest partner in the ENGAGE.EU European University Alliance. The event was dedicated to the topic Promoting ENGAGE.EU through SDGs and provided participants with a unique opportunity to explore the global world of academic collaboration and innovation. The Study Tour was implemented within the framework of Work Task 3.2. - Seamless Mobility headed by the UNWE from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetla Boneva, Dean of the International Economics and Politics Faculty.

The ENGAGE.EU Study Tour URL took place last week and included a wide range of lectures and practical sessions. The main topics included the sustainable development, the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals /SDGs/ and innovation related to artificial intelligence. The programme was aimed at enriching the knowledge and expanding the professional opportunities of ENGAGE.EU Alliance students while providing them with opportunities for cultural exchange, diversity in their choice of Master's degree programmes and social interaction with their peers from other partner universities.

In the first edition of ENGAGE.EU Study Tour the UNWE was represented by Adriyan Dinev, PhD student, speciality Marketing, Liya Yoveva, Bahcelor student, speciality Finance, Byulen Misankova, Bachelor student, speciality International Economic Relations, Nikolay Yanakiev, Bachelor student, speciality International Economic Relations and Maria Terzieva, Bachelor student, speciality Finance and Accounting taught in English.

Adrian is one of the first active participants in the international ENGAGE.EU network. As representative of UNWE he shared: "The programme not only helped me growing as a professional but also opened to me doors to the Western academic community. I am currently at Universitat Ramon Llull in Barcelona where the knowledge and innovation go hand in hand".

Liya highlighted the importance of the topics during the exchange including the sustainable development under the SDGs, Catalonia's performance and the role of artificial intelligence. She said that the post-US election discussion was the most memorable part of the programme presenting different perspectives and lines of analysis.

Byulen, second-year student girl, shared her inspiration to explore other international opportunities after participating in ENGAGE.EU. The programme has given her valuable perspectives which she intends to develop through further academic and professional exchanges. Such an example is the various Master`s degree programmes.

Nicholay expressed his confidence that the programme had provided a meaningful intercultural exchange for the Alliance students, further emphasizing his contentment with the UNWE. "I am completely contented! We exchanged a lot of information and I think we represented our country and our university - UNWE well", shared our student.

Maria told that she has learned about the programme from the social networks of UNWE and has been impressed by the opportunities provided by the University. She recommends every student to follow the ENGAGE.EU and UNWE news for future exchanges.

In addition to the academic sessions the students had the opportunity to visit the Parliament of Catalonia, Parc Güell, which is located next to Rectorate of Universitat Ramon Llull as well as Esade's innovative campuses in Sant Cugat and La Salle, where they learned about the innovative approach to the business and learning perspectives.

The first edition of ENGAGE.EU Study Tour Universitat Ramon Llull 2024 turned out to be a remarkable opportunity for the UNWE students to broaden their academic and professional horizons by experiencing new ideas and people from all over Europe.

At the initiative of the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov an academic ceremony in honour of H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Morocco and Doyen of the Diplomatic Corps in Bulgaria for her dedicated work to strengthen the international educational cooperation.

During the event the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov awarded to H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui the Commemorative Medal of Prof. Dr. Stefan Bobchev - Founder and First Rector of the UNWE her contribution to strengthening the international cooperation in the field of education and fruitful collaboration with the UNWE.

Nearly 30 ambassadors attended the ceremony and greeted H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui. Before the event the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov met in his office with H. E. Mr. Kenneth Merten, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America /USA/. At the meeting together with H.E Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui attended also the Ambassador of India H. E. Mr. Sanjay Rana, H. E. Catherine Bannon, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ireland and Prof. Dr. Polya Katsamunska, moderator and main Coordinator of the event, lecturer at the UNWE Public Administration Department. 

Prof. Dr. Polya Katsamunska, H. E. Mr. Sanjay Rana, H. E. Mrs. Zakiya El Midaoui, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, H. E. Mr. Kenneth Merten, H. E. Catherine Bannon /from the left to the right/

The official guest at the event was the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Maria Angelieva.

Prof. Dr. Polya Katsamunska, moderator and main Coordinator of the event, H. E. Mrs. Zakiya El Midaoui, the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Maria Angelieva /from the left to the right/

"The Rector and the academic community of our University have the great pleasure to host this celebration in honour of H. E. Mrs. Zakiya El Midaoui, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Morocco, Doyen of the Diplomatic Corps in Bulgaria, to celebrate her outstanding work in Bulgaria in supporting and promoting the educational and cultural cooperation as well as the development of relations between our countries. There is no doubt that her strong presence here in Bulgaria is full of achievements and we would like to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude for her support, friendship and partnership throughout the years we have worked together on various educational and research projects, cultural events and joint initiatives. She is not only an ambassador of a very high caliber, but also an exceptional person who opened her soul to the Bulgarians," said Prof. Dr. Polya Katsamunska and emphasized: "Because of all this we invited H. E. Mrs. Zakiya El Midaoui to deliver a public speech on The Power of Women in Diplomacy. We take this opportunity to award to her the Commemoprative Meda of Prof. Stefan Bobchev - Founder and First Rector of the UNWE for her outstanding merits and recognition for her invaluable support and active participation in the educational initiatives, research projects and cultural events, for all her significant contribution to the Bulgarian-Moroccan cooperation and partnership".

"Today is a particularly solemn day for our academic community because we have the honour and privilege to express our respect and appreciation to an extraordinary person - H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Morocco”, said the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and outlined: "Your Excellency, your mission in Bulgaria has left a solid trace both in the political and economic relations between our two countries as well as in the academic cooperation, for which the UNWE is very grateful. You have not only worked to strengthen the bilateral relations, but have also contributed to the closeness of our peoples, cultures and academic communities. Your understanding that keeping the cultural and historical heritage is of vital importance for any country, as it represents its culture and civilization, helps to connect peoples and creates a sense of belonging. It has found expression in hundreds of forums building a bridge in exploring our two cultures as well as in the joint initiatives between the Standard newspaper and the UNWE on the occasion of the project Wonders of Bulgaria. Over the years of your mission in Bulgaria you have shown an endless energy, diplomatic talent and sincere desire for cooperation. Due to your efforts, very important partnerships between the Bulgarian and Moroccan universities, including our university, have been launched. Such initiatives not only open up new opportunities for students and lecturers, but also create a basis for sustainable cooperation and mutual enrichment”.

On behalf of the French-speaking group of Ambassadors H. E. Mr. Raymund Furrer, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Swiss Confederation, greeted H. E. Mrs Zakia El Midaoui.

Greetings to H. E. Mrs. Zakiya El Midaoui were also presented on behalf of the Arab group of ambassadors in Bulgaria - H. E. Dr. Toufic Jaber, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Lebanon, and on behalf of all diplomatic missions accredited in the Republic of Bulgaria greeting were extended by H. E. Mrs. Brândusha Ioana Predescu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Romania.

H. E. Mr. Raymund Furrer	H. E. Dr. Toufic Jaber	H. E. Mrs. Brândusha Ioana Predescu

Evelina Tsileva, Chairperson of the NGO More Women in the Power, awarded a plaque to H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui and expressed thankfulness her for the fruitful cooperation.

In her public lecture on The Power of Women in Diplomacy H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui highlighted: “The equitable participation and leadership of women in political and public life are essential in the implementation of the United Nations agenda relating to the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. However, data indicate that women are underrepresented at all levels of decision-making power throughout the world, and that gender parity is still far from being achieved in political life, including in the field of foreign policy of countries. Throughout the world, including in developed countries, diplomacy has always been considered an exclusively male domain. Today, women remain underrepresented in leadership positions and in the most important geopolitical positions, due to numerous obstacles preventing them from joining diplomatic services. Moreover, at the global level, women represent only one fifth (1/5) of the ambassadors, with some variations depending on the region and country. She outlined that the the Kongdom of Morocco has a diplomatic network of 104 diplomatic representations /embassies/ and 57 consular posts and although the number of female diplomats, ambassadors and general consuls in Morocco is significantly lower than that of men, the career developments of women and men, with equal skills, remain parallel and identical and do not experience any kind of gender-based discrimination.

In her speech H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui also pointed out that over the years the Moroccan women have asserted their presence in the diplomatic sphere due to their own qualities and professional skills, as well as their dynamism and their ability to negotiate.

“It falls to me to recall the role of women in preventive diplomacy, mediation and peacekeeping. As you may all know, conflicts throughout the world have had disastrous repercussions on men and women, but as the latter are often the ones who pay the highest price, in terms of violence against them, rape, assault, economic insecurity, forced displacement, etc. Since women and girls are often the first collateral victims of conflicts, pandemics, poverty, etc. They have much more to fear for the safety of their homes, children and families than men. This is why they play a leading role in preventing conflicts, and if unfortunately hostilities break out, they can help contain and stop them”, pointed out the Ambassador of Morocco and added: “I would like to say that despite the great strides made in consolidating gender equality, promoting the gender approach requires more efforts, everywhere in the world, mainly when it comes to strengthen women's participation in decision-making and achieve gender equality in economic, political and social spheres”.

More than 30 representatives of the diplomatic corps attended the event and among them were: Н. E. Mr. Rami Aloteibi, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, H. E. Mr. Abdulrahman Ahmed Al Jaber, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United Arab Emirates, H. E. Mr. Nader Saad, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Arab Republic of Egypt, H. E. Mr. Ghazi Hamed Alfadli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kuwait, H. E. Dr. Toufic Jaber, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Lebanon, Н. E. Mrs. Lina Omar, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Iraq, Mr. Ahmed Shamer, Managing Counsellor at the Embassy of the Republic of Yemen, H. E. Mr. Fahad Al-Mushiri, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Qatar, H. E. Mr. Raymund Furrer, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Swiss Confederation, H. E. Mrs. Brândusha Ioana Predescu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Romania, Н. E. Mrs. Agneza Rusi PopovskaAmbassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of North Macedonia, H. E. Mrs. Alexandra Micic Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Bosnia and Herzegovina, H. E. Mr. Iwan Bogananta, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia, H. E. Mr. Sanjay Rana, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India, Н. E. Mrs. Catherine Bannon Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ireland, H. E. Mr. Kenneth Merten, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the United States of America /USA/, H. E. Mrs. Lhagvasuren Sayanaa, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Mongolia, H. E. Dr. Miklós Boroš, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Hungary, H. E. Mrs. Ursula Höfter Zuccoli, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Sovereign Order of Malta, Н. E. Mr. Otar Berdzenishvili, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Georgia, H. E. Mr. Do Hoang Long, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Mr. Radivoje Brajovic, Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of Montenegro, H. E. Mrs. Natasha Bergel, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Slovenia, representative of the Ambassador of Poland H. E. Dr. Maciej Szymanski. The event was also attended by representatives of various state institutions and chambers of commerce.

On behalf of UNWE the event was attended by Prof. Dr. Matilda Alexandrova, Vice Rector for Educational Activities, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanko Hristozov, Vice Rector for International Affairs, Deans of Faculties, Heads of Departments, lecturers and students.

The ceremony is organized in collaboration with the university team coordinating the STUDIES-DIG project under the Horizon Europe Programme - a key EU funding programme for research and innovation helping to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals and supporting the creation and better dissemination of excellent knowledge and technology. On behalf of the UNWE team Prof. Dr. Lyuben Boyanov greeted the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui and expressed his heartfelt gratitude for her dedication and contribution to the development of cooperation between Bulgaria and Morocco.

Prof. Dr. Lyuben Boyanov, lecturer at the Information Technologies and CommunicationsDepartment, awarded a plaque to H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui on behalf of the project team

Traditionally H. E. Mrs. Zakia El Midaoui wrote a message in the Golden Book of the UNWE.

“For me it is an honour and pleasure to express in this Golden book some of my impressions about University of National and World Economy, with whom the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco has very deep and profound links, including the numerous training and research programs, targeting students and professionals from Moroccan universities and UNWE.

I warmly salute the engagement of the top management of UNWE (Mr. Rector and his team for their engagement, professionalism and availability).

UNWE is a great model on which other universities can inspire and with whom they can start sustainable collaboration, such as the case of the universities in Tangers, Kenitra and Rabat from Morocco. Moreover, our Moroccan professors and students learn many things from their exchange mobilities with UNWE.

May stability, prosperity and excellence always be among the UNWE.”