site.btaTechnical University Rectors Support Mandatory Math Matriculation Exam

Rectors of Bulgaria’s technical universities Monday supported the introduction of mandatory math exams to strengthen engineering education. They gathered at the University of Architecture, Civil Engineering, and Geodesy (UACEG) for a meeting with Minister of Education and Science Krasimir Valchev to discuss measures aimed at boosting interest in technical education and addressing the shortage of specialists in key sectors for the economy.

Dr. Gichka Kutova-Kamenova, Rector of UACEG, voiced her support for the proposed reforms, emphasizing the critical role of technical education in meeting national and business needs. She highlighted the ongoing challenges in meeting the demand for hydroengineering specialists, a field in which UACEG trains students. “We have requested an increased intake of hydroengineers this year, and we hope that with the new budget allocations, we can offer higher scholarships to these candidates. On May 9, UACEG will host a meeting with companies from the water sector, where they will provide tasks and suggestions for specific scholarships for hydroengineering students based on good academic performance,” said the Rector.

Prof. Dr. Senya Terzieva-Zhelyazkova, Rector of the University of Chemical Technology and Metallurgy (HTMU), highlighted the importance of preparing high school graduates with the skills necessary to meet the demands of the labor market. “We all agree that the secondary education stage must give students the opportunity to choose careers that align with the needs of the industry and society. This way, they will be better prepared to contribute to the economy after graduation,” Prof. Terzieva-Zhelyazkova stated.

Prof. Dr. Miglena Temelkova, Chair of the Council of Rectors and Rector of the University of Telecommunications and Posts, summarized the unanimous stance of the rectors from universities offering engineering degrees. She strongly advocated for the introduction of a mandatory mathematics exam at the end of high school. “All of us agree that a priority policy for the state in the coming years should be the mandatory introduction of the math matriculation exam for high school graduates. This will improve students' mathematical culture and analytical thinking. Universities will benefit by working with students who are better prepared in mathematics,” said Prof. Temelkova. She also emphasized the importance of long-term planning and highlighted a practice adopted by the Mining and Geology University, where math exam scores are tripled, rather than doubled, in the university’s admissions process. “This approach is something some of us are likely to implement in our universities’ policies,” she added. 

The discussions also covered other potential changes in the admission process to better align students' knowledge with the requirements of various engineering disciplines.