2026

Public consultation on the new Education Strategy 2026–2032 Status: Under consultation

Strategy / policy background In early 2026, the Ministry of Education and Science (Министерство за образование и наука) launched a public consultation for the new strategic framework and its Action Plan 2026–2028.

Description of the main measures The draft strategy for the ECEC sector focuses on:

• Expanding preschool capacity in cooperation with municipalities;
• Modernising curricula to enhance early learning outcomes;
• Digitalising administrative processes within childcare institutions.

2025

Strengthening professional development and inclusive education Status: Ongoing

Strategy / policy background Reforms focused on professional development for preschool educators and improving inclusive educational practices.

Description of the main measures A training module titled “Inclusion and Learning Environment” was delivered within the Social Services Improvement Project (supported by the World Bank).

• A total of 1,567 participants completed the training.
• This included 1,384 educators and 183 directors and professional associates.

Expected effects The measure strengthened national capacities for high-quality and inclusive early childhood education.

2024

Strategic policy priorities for education Status: Ongoing / Implemented

Strategy / policy background Reforms were guided by the Government Work Programme 2024–2028 and the Education Strategy 2018–2025.

Description of the main measures Policy priorities emphasized:

• Improving education infrastructure and accessibility;
• Ensuring equal access to education from early childhood onwards;
• Strengthening inclusive education across all levels of the system.