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PROF. EMIL PANUSHEV, PHD TO ECONOMY. BG: EDUCATION SHOULD BUILD CRITICAL THINKING AND RESPONSIBILITY
24 August 2026
Photo: Personal archive
Artificial intelligence will play a key role in the next industrial revolution, and students must be aware of its capabilities and use it within clear ethical and regulatory boundaries. This is emphasised by Prof. Emil Panushev, PhD, Head of the Department of Economics at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, in an interview for the column University Teachers in Bulgaria on Economy.bg.
Prof. Panushev presents his professional path and his experience in teaching international economics and economic integration in the European Union. According to him, the main challenge facing the modern university teacher is to monitor the dynamics of the national and global economy, scientific achievements and the development of information technologies.
He describes today's students as free-thinking, pragmatic and technically prepared young people who seek the practical applicability of knowledge and opportunities for successful professional realization. Preparing them for the changing labour market requires the development of critical thinking, responsibility and decision-making ability.
In the interview, Prof. Panushev also emphasises the cooperation between universities and employers. He points out as a good example the branch boards of trustees at Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar", through which business representatives participate in the discussion of curricula, training, state exams and thesеs defenses. In his opinion, support for education should be perceived by business as an investment in the future.
Prof. Panushev also draws attention to the University’s adopted Artificial Intelligence Policy, which promotes the transparent use of new technologies, data and intellectual property protection, digital literacy and the development of relevant competencies.
The greatest satisfaction for him remains the successful career integration of students into business, state and local government, diplomatic service, international organizations and science. Their achievements confirm the role of higher education in building individuals who contribute to the development of society.
Read the full text of the interview on Economy.bg