site.btaBulgaria and France to Promote Bilateral University Programmes

Joint programmes of universities in Bulgaria and France and the participation of the two countries' higher learning establishments in the network of European universities should be encouraged. The observation was made at a meeting between Education and Science Minister Galin Tsokov and French Ambassador to Bulgaria Joel Meyer, Tsokov's ministry reported on Wednesday.

The Ambassador said that French universities are interested in programmes with Bulgaria in the field of political science, engineering (including construction engineering) and architecture.

Cooperation in secondary education was another highlight of the discussion. Tsokov said that French is one of the most preferred languages among Bulgarian school-goers. He said it would be useful for Bulgaria to learn more about French language teaching models from France and the competency approach applied in that country.

Ambassador Meyer said he is impressed by the skills and the enthusiasm of teachers in Bulgaria. He said cooperation should deepen and should become more structured.

Discussing vocational education, the sides paid attention to the interest of French companies in this type of education in Bulgaria. Tsokov spoke about planned changes in vocational learning and the need to promote dual education (the work and study method) and to upgrade occupational training.

The two officials also talked about science. They acknowledged the successful joint work of Bulgarian and French scientists under the Horizon Europe Programme. They agreed to look for ways to facilitate the relevant application procedure.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Education and Science Minister Genka Petrova, directorate chiefs at the ministry, French Institute Sofia Director Pierre Colliot, and the institute's Attache for Scientific and University Cooperation Arnaud Bauberot.