Developing Bulgaria's National Skills Strategy

Supported by the Technical Support Instrument (TSI), the Commission aimed to create a comprehensive skills action plan aligned with Bulgaria's national priorities and EU policy priorities, addressing demographic shifts and digital transformations.

Context

Skills are crucial for Bulgaria's societal well-being amidst demographic and digital disruptions. The current pressures on the skills system and the broad range of policies that need to be considered pose significant challenges but can also represent opportunities for innovative responses to strengthen the education and training system. An integrated approach to skills policies is essential to improve the national performance in both developing relevant skills and using those skills effectively. This project is aligned with national reform priorities and EU policy priorities, especially the Green and Digital Transformation and the Recovery and Resilience Facility. and builds on the OECD Skills Strategy Bulgaria Report, offering tailored recommendations for enhancing skills among youth and adults, improving skills utilization, and strengthening skills governance.

Support Delivered

The European Commission supported the Ministry of Education and Science of Bulgaria in developing and implementing a National Skills Strategy through a whole of government approach. The support was delivered in cooperation with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) through a proposal for a comprehensive action plan detailing key objectives and policy actions, relevant activities, instruments, timelines and stakeholders’ roles and responsibilities. Activities included capacity building workshops with Bulgarian authorities and stakeholders, focusing on operationalising the action plan, establishing monitoring systems, and preparing communication strategies. Consultations involved ministries, agencies, regional authorities, local institutions, and stakeholder groups to ensure comprehensive input.

Result achieved

Describe the results achieved by the project. What is the benefit to the beneficiary and its main stakeholders? What is the expected improvement and impact on the ground? Feel free to mention relevant statistics and sources. 

The project guided Bulgaria in developing and refining an action plan for skills to implement a National Skills Strategy, fostering a deeper understanding of effective policy implementation through workshops, consultations with key stakeholders, as well as insights from national and international good practices. Expected benefits include strengthened governance of the skills system, enhanced alignment with EU standards, and improved skills among the population, contributing to long-term economic resilience and societal well-being amidst demographic and digital challenges. The project further raised awareness through a concluding public event involving national stakeholders and expert.