The DOMINO Project has left a lasting impact on Bulgaria’s educational landscape, culminating in a national conference titled “Dual Education – a Road to Opportunities,” held in Sofia on June 12, 2019. The event, which gathered over 180 participants, marked a significant milestone in the introduction and implementation of dual education (learning by working) in Bulgaria, a model inspired by Swiss expertise.
The conference, co-organized by the Ministry of Education and Science and the DOMINO Project, highlighted the successes and future prospects of dual education in the country. Minister of Education and Science Krassimir Valchev announced that the initiative will continue with substantial funding of 24 million leva from the Operational Programme Science and Education for Smart Growth, ensuring that this innovative approach to vocational education will benefit even more students in the years to come.
Swiss Ambassador Muriel Berset Kohen, along with Ivan Ivanov, Director of the National Coordination Unit at the Council of Ministers, addressed the conference, emphasizing the importance of the partnership between Bulgaria and Switzerland in transforming vocational education. The DOMINO Project, which introduced this dual education model, has been instrumental in providing career opportunities for young people and fostering closer ties between education and business.
Petya Evtimova, the DOMINO Team Leader and project coordinator, underscored the project’s achievements in her presentation, noting that within just four years, DOMINO successfully introduced a new system of vocational education that actively involves Bulgarian businesses. This collaboration has resulted in 1,600 students from 32 vocational schools across 19 cities enrolling in the dual education model. These students not only receive academic diplomas but also earn certificates for professional qualifications in high-demand industries, with 70% of DOMINO graduates already employed by the companies where they gained hands-on experience during their studies.
The conference also featured insights from both Bulgarian and Swiss experts, who discussed the critical role of partnerships between businesses, local authorities, and state institutions in the success of dual education. The event provided a platform for students to share their personal experiences with dual education, further highlighting the tangible benefits of this educational model.
One of the significant outcomes of the conference was the introduction of Practical Guidelines on Dual Education, developed within the DOMINO Project. These guidelines will serve as a valuable resource for educators and businesses alike, ensuring the continued success and expansion of dual education in Bulgaria.
The DOMINO Project’s legacy goes beyond its immediate achievements. It was during this project that the idea for our foundation was born. Coordinated by Petya Evtimova and supported by team members like Nikolay, the collaborative spirit and innovative thinking fostered by DOMINO inspired us to create our foundation, dedicated to continuing the work of social integration and educational advancement through innovative projects.
As we look to the future, the success of the DOMINO Project serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision for a better future for Bulgaria’s youth.
