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VARNA FREE UNIVERSITY "CHERNORIZETS HRABAR" - SMOLYAN BRANCH SIGNED A MEMORANDUM WITH THE STROITEL NEWSPAPER
20 December 2025
Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar" - Smolyan Branch and the Stroitel newspaper concluded a Memorandum of Cooperation with the aim of promoting and popularising higher construction education and the relationship between the academic community and the professional industry.The document was signed by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Stroitel newspaper EAD Eng. Plamen Pergelov and the Director of Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar" - Smolyan Branch Assoc. Prof. Anelia Parzhanova, PhD. The event was also attended by the procurator and editor-in-chief of the Stroitel newspaper Reneta Nikolova.
By signing the memorandum, the two parties undertake to join their efforts to popularise construction education through publications, interviews, media partnership at professional forums and organising joint events.
The cooperation also includes disseminating topics relevant to the construction industry through the publication of information and other specialised materials aimed at the academic and professional community.
Assoc. Prof. Pŭrzhanova was a special guest in the “Interview” section of the newspaper Stroitel. Here is what she said:
The conscious choice of the construction profession – a path to sustainable development of young people and the Rhodope region
Assoc. Prof. Parzhanova, what is the conscious choice of the construction profession for young people?A conscious choice is an informed and reasoned decision for professional development. Young people who choose construction specialties with a clear awareness of their essence understand the requirements for the profession, its technological directions, market opportunities and the real social significance of their work. For them, this is not just a job, but a strategic choice that combines personal success with contribution to society. In this direction, the engineering specialties offered by the VFU "Chernorizets Hrabar" - Smolyan Branch play a key role. Training in the programmes Construction of Buildings and Structures and Water Supply and Sewerage can naturally be upgraded to a master's degree, providing a consistent and stable educational path in engineering sciences. Thus, young people are directed to a field with real demand for personnel and wide opportunities for realization both in Bulgaria and abroad.
Modern technologies – BIM modeling, green building, automation, and intelligent systems – are an integral part of the university's training programmes and clearly show that the sector has long moved beyond the notion of "hard labour" and is developing as a high-tech, modern industry.
What should motivate young people to choose construction specialties and stay in the Rhodope Mountains region?
Motivation should come from the combination of quality education, practical training, professional opportunities and a clear regional perspective. It is no secret that the Rhodope Mountains are a region with an aging population, in which some young people leave and seek professionbal realization in other cities. That is why the role of education is key – it is among the most important factors for future specialists to pursue career in the region and find meaning in staying there. Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” offers exactly this combination – modern curricula, strong practical training and partnerships with institutions and businesses, which give young engineers a real opportunity to build their professional development in the Rhodope Mountains. When students see how their work can improve the environment around them – through modern infrastructure, energy-efficient buildings and sustainable solutions – they make a more thoughtful choice to develop here. Thus, their professional path becomes a strategic investment - both in their own future and in the sustainable development of the region.
What attracts young people to study in the construction specialties at VFU "Chernorizets Hrabar"?
The strong connection between theory and practice, as well as the personal attitude towards each student, are decisive not only in shaping the choice of young people, but also remain leading throughout the entire training process. The curricula of our specialties have introduced modern concepts of green construction, energy efficiency, use of ecological materials and intelligent building management systems. On the other hand, VFU "Chernorizets Hrabar" is increasingly expanding its cooperation with business - students work on real tasks, participate in laboratory experiments, visit construction sites and meet future employers in the first years of their studies. This is important for young people when choosing a career path – they have the opportunity to get acquainted with the various professions in the construction industry on the spot while still studying at the university. We purposefully attract a wide range of institutions, public companies and companies in which students can gain practical experience. This gives them confidence that they know how the business works, they could choose the profession they want, and subsequently – to make the best choice of company and employer. The development and implementation of new educational models that meet the requirements of the real economic environment is part of the development strategy of the Branch – Smolyan. An example of this is the visit to the Trakia Cluster – Plovdiv and the public lecture of the Regional Governor of Plovdiv Region, Prof. Dr. Hristina Yancheva, held this year; practical training at the Regional Directorate “Fire Safety and Population Protection” – Smolyan; traditional participation in the external training during the International Fair Plovdiv. Just a month ago, the students presented their business, environmental, and energy projects on the topic "Global Problems of Modernity in the Context of the Green Transition", and were evaluated by an authoritative jury of experts.
What distinguishes the construction profession and makes it significant for young people?
Construction is a profession that leaves a visible mark. Every public or residential building, road facility, water supply infrastructure or energy-efficient facility is the result of the work of a civil engineer. Young people who are aware of this responsibility and opportunity are more committed to training, practice and modern technologies. This makes them adaptable, prepared and motivated to develop their competencies in the long term. They see the profession as a way to contribute to society with real, sustainable solutions.
We have signed a memorandum of partnership between VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” – Smolyan Branch and the Stroitel newspaper. What will be the first steps?
I would like to thank the Stroitel newspaper for its long-standing partnership and professional coverage of news related to the university. Our cooperation is strategically important – it helps to popularise knowledge, scientific achievements, connect theory with practice and strengthens the connection between the academic world and the construction sector. We plan joint initiatives, events, seminars and career projects, which we will inform about in a timely manner.
What message would you send to young people who are interested in the construction profession and the Branch of VFU "Chernorizets Hrabar" in Smolyan?
I wish them to choose with both their heart and mind - to find their profession consciously and with a clear vision for their future realization. Civil engineering is a space for creativity, innovation and real social contribution. Training at the Branch - Smolyan of VFU "Chernorizets Hrabar" provides an opportunity to build a stable professional path based on modern knowledge, a practical environment and strong academic support. Choosing the construction profession is a strategic investment that combines personal success, professional progress and responsibility to society and nature. With this choice, young people become creators of responsible, sustainable infrastructure that improves life and leaves a lasting positive mark on cities and regions.