Inclusive Education and Support for Personal Development

Over the last decade, Bulgaria has implemented significant measures to ensure equal access to quality education. The current policy aims to remove learning obstacles and support the individuality of every child and student, regardless of regional characteristics, socio-economic status, or mother tongue.

1. Strategic Framework (2021–2030)

In 2021, the Strategic Framework for the Development of Education, Training, and Learning (2021–2030) was adopted. Key goals include:

• Implementing inclusive care for children up to age 3.
• Ensuring smooth transitions between educational stages (e.g., from kindergarten to school).
• Providing systematic career guidance from early childhood to facilitate labor market entry.
• Creating an integrated system for professional education and training for both students and adults.

2. General vs. Additional Support

The Pre-school and School Education Act categorizes support into two levels:

General Support

Available to every student as needed, including:

• Additional training and consultations in school subjects.
• Modules for students whose mother tongue is not Bulgarian.
• Career orientation, interest-based activities, and health care.
• Speech therapy and prevention of violence or problem behavior.

Additional Support

Provided for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN), those at risk, gifted students, or those with chronic illnesses. This includes:

• Psychosocial, hearing, speech, and sight rehabilitation.
• Resource support (specialized teachers) and specialized equipment.
• Provision of an accessible architectural and informational environment.

3. Specialized Institutions and Centers

Support is provided through several specialized units:

• Centers for Support of Personal Development: Organize activities for inclusion, interest development, and career counseling.
• Regional Support Centers for Inclusive Education: Coordinate regional teams (resource teachers, psychologists, speech therapists) to assess individual needs and inform parents about educational paths.
• Centers for Special Educational Support: Modernized schools for students with sensory disabilities (hearing or visually impaired).

4. Inclusion of Vulnerable Groups

Significant efforts are directed toward the educational integration of marginalized communities, including Roma students and those seeking international protection.

Statistics and Challenges: In the 2020/2021 academic year, over 19,800 students with special needs received support. However, challenges remain for the Roma community: only 50% of Roma children attend preschool, and a significant number leave the education system prematurely before completing secondary education. The Center for Educational Integration of Children and Students from Ethnic Minorities (CSOIDUEM) actively works to overcome desegregation and improve mother-tongue proficiency.

5. Support for Gifted Children

Children with exceptional talents in science, art, or sports are entitled to special protection. This includes:

• One-time financial support and scholarships.
• Admission to specialized art or sports schools.
• Annual protection programs coordinated by the Ministers of Culture, Education, and Sports.