At a meeting held on 10 June 2010 and under Art. 88, item 6 of the Law on Higher Education, the Accreditation Council members of the The National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency (NEAA) gave program accreditations to five scientific majors of the regulated professions of educational and scientific degree “doctor” at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.
On the basis of common evaluation criteria “Very Good” in accordance with Art. 79 (1) of the Law on Higher Education and a period of six years, the programmes that received accreditation are: 05:05:06 “Constitutional Law”; 05:05:08 “Civil and Family Law”; 05:05:15 “International Law and International Relations”; 05:05:19 “Criminalistics”; and 05:05:20 “Criminology”.
Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” is the first Bulgarian university, which received the honorary sign “ECTS Label” for the successfully implement of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). As a certificate of the European Union it guarantees the mobility of students and facilitates their learning in different educational institutions. After the “DS Label” - a sign of European Diploma Supplement that the university received last year, this is the second major recognition of the European Commission for VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”. 

In the period 24 - 26 June 2010 for a third time in Varna Free University “Chernorozets Hrabar” will be held the International conference “Informatics in scientific knowledge” 2010. The conference is organized by Varna Free University and the Institute of Mathematics and Informatics at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and is managed jointly by Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University and Acad. Prof. Stefan Dodunekov, Director of the Institute of Mathematics and Informatics.

The third International Scientific Conference “Informatics in scientific knowledge” aims to discuss the basics and achievements in the implementation and use of informatics and information technology in the field of scientific knowledge.
The number of reports is 53, divided into 3 research areas:
     - Informatics in engineering and technology: 15
     - Informatics in the economy, governance and culture: 18
     - Informatics in education: 16
Four of the reports are for a plenary session.

There are plans to be conducted a roundtable “Action Plan for ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) - support for lifelong learning” - problems of the Higher education. During the roundtable will be organized a videoconference with interlocutors from Bulgaria and abroad.

The authors of the reports are from Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Greece, USA and Israel. A guest from Austria will participate in the roundtable discussions. The participants from Bulgaria are from Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, Plovdiv University “Paisii Hilendarski”, Russe University “Angel Kanchev”, University of Shumen “Konstantin Preslavski”, Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Technical University - Varna, University of Veliko Turnovo “St. Cyril and St. Methodius”, Institutes from the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and IT companies.

In the period 18 - 20 June 2010 at Varna Free University “Chernorozets Hrabar” was held the ninth international scientific conference: “Applied Psychology in Bulgaria: Possibilities and Perspectives 2010”. It was attended by scientists from three continents - Europe, Africa and Asia.
The major problem directions in the research and development areas were: “Psycho-diagnostics, clinical psychology and consulting practice”, “School Psychology”, “Psychological problems of social work and psycho-corrections”, “Psychology of security and behavior in extreme situations” and “Social psychology, national psychology and psychology of culture”.
The sailors who are victims of pirate attacks were the main accent in the discussions of the psychologists within the conference. It is recommended the victims to speak about their experience, advises Assoc. Prof. Valery Stoyanov, lecturer at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”. Relatives often make mistake to avoid the topic because they consider that it should return the memories. According to the experts the trauma might be compared with the wound, which should be thoroughly cleaned, so it can heal. The disinfection can hurt, but without it there is a risk of infection and more serious consequences. Except of giving love and support, the family had yet to provoke the victim to share his feelings. Otherwise post-traumatic stress can cause various manifestations - from inappropriate behavior to physical illness.
Analog is the case with the Bulgarian medics in Libya, the researchers explained. However, it is not necessary to come to life-threatening situation. Even a case such as a divorce or a disappointment from a loved person can also knock down a man, if the emotions are not properly processed. Psychology makes the connection between experience and physical upsets, added Assoc. Prof. Stoyanov. Although all the researches, there are still no solid findings on the causes of certain diseases such as cancer, participants commented on the discussion.
During the conference was held a roundtable discussion on topic: “Intercultural tolerance, communications and cooperation”. Materials from the roundtable will be published in a collection together with the reports from the conference. 

The “ECTS Label” certified appreciation of the European Commission for the successfully implement of the credit system and ensure the unconditional recognition of the credits acquired in the university in all countries.
Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” was the first Bulgarian University who received the honorary mark “ECTS Label” for the successful implementation of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). As a certificate of the European Union it guarantees the student mobility and facilitates their training in different educational institutions.
The decision was made by the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) and the University announced that the honor ceremony will be held on 5 October in the Belgium city of Antwerp.
After receiving the honorary sign ”DS Label” last year, this is the second major recognition of the European Commission for Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. If the “DS Label” makes the diplomas issued by the University automatically recognized in Europe and the countries that respect the European education, the “ECTS Label” raises the image of the university as an honest and reliable partner in the European and international cooperation, said the rector of the university - Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova. According to her, the both European signs promote the transparency and quality of training, the level of teaching and the general conditions for obtaining the academic qualifications of “bachelor” and “master”. Of all the candidates this year, Varna Free University is the only Bulgarian university, passed successfully all the procedures for receiving the honorary sign “ECTS Label”. The selection was made by independent experts and before the final decision the Education, Audiovisual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) discussed the results with the European Commission. The aim is to examine in what level the university applies the principles of the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) as publicity and transparency of educational programmes and published documents that recognize periods of study at home and abroad.
The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is used in whole Europe for credit transfer of mobility of students and credit accumulation – learning pathways that lead to a degree. Furthermore, in the sphere of the Higher education, it can be applied also to other forms of lifelong learning. 

On 02 – 03 May 2010 Borislav Dobrev, a student, IV course in “Protection of national security” at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” visited the NATO headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. This was a reward for his classification by the National Essay Competition on the topic: "The new NATO Strategic Concept: the way forward", announced by the Diplomatic Institute (DI) with the assistance of the Directorate “Public diplomacy” of NATO, on the occasion of April 4 – The Day of the Atlantic solidarity. The competition involved students from Bulgarian universities and schools in Sofia, Varna, Dimitrovgrad, Vidin, Koprivshtitsa, Pazardzhik, Pomorie, Burgas and other towns.
In a series of briefings they were acquainted with the agenda of NATO's operations and missions, its partnerships and internship programs. In the Permanent Delegation of Bulgaria in NATO Ambassador Todor Churov welcomes the Bulgarian students for their interest in the activities of NATO and together with the Bulgarian military representative in NATO, General Pehlivanov, informed the participants about the work of the delegation. The group was led by Dr. Kamen Lozev, coordinator of the course in military diplomacy at the Diplomatic Institute.

"I am very pleased and delighted by the perfect organization. Our hosts in Brussels were extremely polite. The meetings that we held were very fruitful. I believe I was worthy to represent my university – Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, and I am happy to consider that I have been able to arouse people’s interest to what is done here – which is absolutely great! Let all students at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” be proud of being part of this institution, as I am. I would like to tell all my colleagues that the knowledge and skills acquired here give self-esteem, confidence and real ground for competitiveness and realization!”, Borislav shared with us.

21 students, from the master degree programmes at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” and the European College of Economics and Management in Plovdiv, internshiped in German companies. They visited North Rhine-Westphalia state of Germany and key EU institutions in Brussels. The lucky ones were selected among 240 candidates for their excellent grades received in the first semester, reported the partner universities.
The first group were 11 representatives of the “Accounting and Controlling” program. The trainees from the second group were excellent students from other five master programmes – Business administration in tourism, Marketing, Business projects management, Economic relations and Finances.
In recent days at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” was held a meeting on the project “Being able to ecotourism”. It is worth € 385 500 and aims to overcome the educational deficits in the industry by developing and introducing a pilot e-learning platform. 

In Moscow, at the invitation of the Rector of the Moscow Architectural Institute and Vice - President of the Academy of Fine Arts, Academician D. O. Shvidkovskiy and within the inter-university cooperation agreement with Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” signed on 13 May 2010, professors from the Department of Architecture and Urbanism, gave to students and lecturers in Moscow Architectural Institute two lectures on topics: ”International competition for secondary city center of Sofia, 2009”, by Prof. Ivan Nikiforov and “Bulgarian traditional architecture and contemporary interpretations in the practice and in the Architectural education”, by Prof. Rosica Nikiforova.
Both topics, announced in advance, were accepted with interest. The first topic comments the projects of the most famous modern names in architecture, the second topic discusses the interpretive models valid for all national architectures. The results from the Second International Student Workshop of Varna Free University were also discussed. The lecture was attended by the lastyear participants in the workshop and the participants from this year.
On 14 May 2010 again in the Moscow Architectural Institute was celebrated the anniversary of Academician Andrey Borisovich Nekrasov. A congratulatory address and a pennant of Varna Free University ”Chernorizets Hrabar” were handed from Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova. Architect Nekrasov works with lecturers from the Faculty of Architecture at Varna Free University and has contributed in the exchange of experience in the education of architects. For the second year he leads teams of students participating in our international workshops. 

For a third time Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” organized an international student workshop - a contest with real architectural problems in the region of Varna. This year’s topic was “Artificial island situated opposite the beach resort “St. St. Constantine and Helena”. Its construction is provided in the new Master Plan of the city, as a possible protection of the coast from marine erosion.
The location of the island was chosen as a result of hydrological studies and architectural considerations. The choice of its particular form, relief and constructive way of building were provided to the participants in the workshop.

The competition program, consistent with the holding “St. St. Constantine and Elena” - investor and co-organizer of the workshop, foresees the security features of the island to be supplemented with recreational-touristic features by building a five-star hotel, various shops and restaurants, an outdoor summer theater, gardens, marina and more.
Participation in the workshop took teams from Moscow Architectural Institute, Moscow; St. Petersburg State Polytechnic University; Belgrade State University; State University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania; New Bulgarian University, Sofia; “Luben Karavelov” Civil Engineering Higher School - Sofia; Varna Free “Chernorizets Hrabar” and a group of students from the University of Forestry, Sofia, majoring in “Landscape Architecture”. The participants were distributed among seven architectural teams.
The program of the workshop provided a preliminary preparation of the participants in the universities and final work on place.

An international jury consisting of: President - Arch. Dimitar Stefanov, a chairman of the Union of Architects in Bulgaria - Varna and members - arch. Georgi Minchev, a chairman of the Bulgarian engineering – architectural chamber – Varna; Prof. Vladimir Mako - Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at Belgrade State University, Serbia; Prof. Rosica Nikiforova, a Head of the Department of Architecture and Urbanism at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” and all tutors of student teams from the country and abroad have identified the following awards:

I-st prize for a team of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” with tutor Prof. Ivan Nikiforov and students: Zvezdelina Stoeva, Mariya Yovcheva, Vladimir Kolev.

II-nd prize for a team of Belgrade State University with tutor Prof. Alexander Videnovic and students: Iva Markovic, Yovana Petrovic, Janko Gadic, Veselin Gruic.

III-rd prize for a team of “Luben Karavelov” Civil Engineering Higher School with tutor arch. Andrew Velinov and students: Victoria Atanasova, Mariya Nikolova, Damyan Sardarev. There was a special prize for a team of Moscow Architectural Institute with tutor arch. Varvara Domnenko and students: Vasili Yagodin, Andrei Yanshin, Ivan Moysenko.

All other participants received incentive certificates.
The jury unanimously finds wealth of concepts for building the island and the high professional level of all participants. The jury distinguished projects offering: low-storey construction, which fits harmoniously in the silhouette of the complex, suitable maximum protection from the sea on the shore and on the island itself, original spatial composition of urban decision and modern architecture of the hotel.

The awards were presented by Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University, Mr. Ilko Zapryanov, commercial director of “St. St. Constantine and Elena” Holding and Prof. Dr. Stefan Terziev, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at Varna Free University.
In her concluding speech, Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova underlined that the university will support in future similar initiatives that help to improve the direct contact between lecturers and students of higher schools of architecture in the country and abroad, to improve the architectural education and practical contribution for solving the major architectural urban problems of Varna.
Exhibition of projects of all participants in the workshop will be displayed in the building of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” and in the “House of the architect” – Varna. 

On 28 and 29 May 2010 at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” was held a meeting under the project “To learn ecotourism” (N8Urjob). The meeting was attended by representatives of the leading organization - Center for development of region of Karelia-Pielinen, Nurses, Finland and the partner organizations: Global Village, Joensuu, Finland; European Centre for Ecological Agriculture and Tourism, Lyubavka, Poland; Regional Cooperation Partnership, Meath, Ireland; West Lithuanian Business College, Klaipeda, Lithuania and Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Varna.
The project is financed under the “Lifelong Learning”, sector programme “Grundtvig”, Multilateral Projects and amounted 385 500 euros.

The project aims to overcome the educational deficits in the field of ecotourism, to develop and implement a pilot e-learning platform. Tasks pursued by the project are: to develop and implement a pilot online module curriculum and program for ecotourism, which to be certified in the countries - partners in the project.

All products will be translated into all partner languages, including Bulgarian and will be available for usage on the project’s page.
The meeting discussed in detail the preparation of the program and the curriculum on ecotourism, as well as the online resources that will be placed on the project and will assist the interested people in developing their own business in ecotourism.
At the meeting were presented the pilot web site of the project and the e-learning platform. 

Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” took two awards “Varna” in the field of Science and Higher Education on a solemn service held on 23 May 2010 in Municipality of Varna.

Prof. Dr. Galia Gercheva -                                                                                     Prof. Dr. Stefan Terziev,
Vice-Rector of Varna Free University                                                        Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at VFU

Prof. Dr. Galia Gercheva - Vice-Rector of Varna Free University, took the award “Varna” in the field of social sciences for her book “Communicative anxiety - personal and contextual dimensions”. In the field of engineering the award took Prof. Dr. Stefan Terziev, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at Varna Free University. The award is given for a new direction in electronics and electrical equipment - architectural lighting and his book “Architectural Lighting”. The monetary amount, which was part of the award, Prof. Dr. Stefan Terziev will provide as a scholarship for a student from the Faculty of Architecture at Varna Free University.

The ceremony was attended by Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University, Prof. Dr. Pavel Pavlov – Vice-Rector of Varna Free University and many teachers, staff and students of the university. 

Wave power could produce electricity just as successful as the sun and the wind. With this thesis scientists from the Technical University of Barcelona want to establish contact with Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” and Technical Univesity - Varna. This was announced by the President of the Union of the Bulgarian Black Sea Local Authorities (UBBSLA) and Mayor of Aksakovo, Mr. Atanas Stoilov. He committed to establish a connection between the research teams at short notice.
The Spaniards had prepared to launch tests of the waves, breaking near Varna and the whole Black Sea coast. The Scientists from Barcelona tested on a modern simulator the type, the height and the wave power, and then made calculations on their potential to produce electricity. The Spaniards prefer Bulgaria and have high expectations for the potential of the waves along the Bulgarian coast. The first fins at sea, which produce electricity, have already successfully utilize Frenchmen.
The team of the Technical University of Barcelona has already implemented a project according to which the elevators in the building of the university save up to 20 - 30% electricity. The saved amounts are lead away in condensation batteries and the elevators rely on their capacity.
The creation of an International Institute of Renewables to UBBSLA was first announced by the Catalonian Parliament MP - Judith Albright Kano. The lady, who is also mayor of Cunit, said that the multinational academic team will be open to the representatives of UBBSLA. This happened at a meeting with the President of the Union - Mr. Atanas Stoilov on 25 October last year. According to Judith Albright Kano the municipalities in both countries will recover successfully after the crisis, thanks to innovative energy projects. 

Between 11 to 14 May 2010 in Sofia was held an academic training for the students in Master program “Advertising and public relations in business management”. In the training were included visits to state institutions, national media, leading business organizations and meetings with the heads of their PR departments. The masters were acquainted with the activities of the Press of the National Assembly, the Council of Ministers, the Directorate “Public relations, Protocol and Administrative Services” at the Ministry of Economy, Energy and Tourism, the Directorate ”Dissemination of information” at the National Statistical Institute, the Public Relations Departments of the Bulgarian National Television (BNT), Bulgarian National Radio (BNR), Bulgarian Industrial Association, Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The general opinion of the masters is that this is an excellent initiative took by VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” and the future PR’s get a real picture of this particular profession. 

In the period 12-15 May 2010 in Warsaw, Poland was held the annually Eighteenth International Scientific Conference “Public administration in times of crisis”, which was attended by over 350 scientists, experts and specialists from government bodies and public administration from over 40 countries from Europe, Asia and America. The conference was attended by seven reports of professors, associate professors and graduate students from the Department “Administration and Management” at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. In the scientific forum participated the Minister of Finance of the Republic of Poland - Yazhek Rostovski, the Minister of Science and Higher Education - Barbara Kudriska and the Minister of Interior and Administration - Dzherzi Miller. The participants in the conference were accepted by the director of the Office of the Council of Ministers of Poland. During the conference was accepted the proposal of the Rector of Varna Free University - Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, the following nineteenth international scientific conference of NISPAcee to be held from 19 to 22 May 2011 in Varna. There was also a programme approved for the accompanying scientific events between members of NISPAcee and Varna Free University for the period May 2010 - May 2011.
NISPAcee (Network of Institutes and Schools of Public Administration in Central and Eastern Europe) is a nonprofit organization with a membership of 126 institutions, institutional members from 23 countries from Central and Eastern Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia and 27 institutions, associated members from 14 Western countries.
NISPAcee was founded in 1994 with main purpose to serve as a central organization for information on the recently created schools and programmes of public administration in the former socialist countries and to promote the development of education and training of public administration in these countries. The present mission of NISPAcee is to promote and strengthen the effective and democratic governance and the modernization of the public administration in the region of NISPAcee (all former socialist countries, including the new member states of the EU, the Balkan countries, the neighboring countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Moldova and the countries of the Caucasus region and Central Asia).

On 14 May 2010 in Hall 3 of the Educational and Sports complex of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” was held a training of trainers on Event Management. 20 trainers, representatives of the tourist business, took part in it and at the end of the event they received certificates from the Rector of Varna Free University - Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova.

Trainings have been conducted by partner organizations in their respective countries - University Foundation for Training in the Region of Murcia, Spain; College of Business and Technology, Lithuania and Liverpool John Moores University, Centre of Tourism, Consumer and Food Studies, UK. The trainings were carried out on different topics out of the manual for Event Management, developed by partner organizations and released in September last year in four languages: Bulgarian, English, Spanish and Lithuanian.

The trainings are part of the activities under the project “Enhancing the Capacity of Tourist Businesses in Europe in Event Management” (EVENTI), co-financed by Lifelong Learning Programme, Leonardo da Vinci, Transfer of Innovation and it amounts to 231 797 euro.

Prof. Martin Rosenfeld – a Head of the Department “Research of Urban Economics” at the Institute for Economic Research in the city of Halle, Germany, held a public lecture at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. The lecture on topic: “Factors of successful urban and regional development” took place on 10 May 2010 in Hall 1 of the Educational and Sports complex of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”.
At the meeting with professors and students, Prof. Rosenfeld drew attention to the work of the municipalities as a whole, and the methods they should implement to raise funds to improve the infrastructure and the living for the individual municipalities. Accents in his lecture were: the urban and regional economics; the municipal finances; the municipal management reform; the national policy on urban development; the policy for development of the regions as well as finding alternative sources of funding in the global economic crisis.
Prof. Martin Rosenfeld is here at the invitation of Dr. Andreas von Belov, a head of the Sofia office of the Foundation “Konrad Adenauer”, with which Varna Free University is in bilateral contractual arrangements for joint activities and projects. By the end of this year there are two more initiatives organized jointly with the Foundation and Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” will be a host again. 

Prof. Martin Rosenfeld

VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” is on fifth place by rating among the universities in Bulgaria. The rating is prepared by the Institute for National Policy. Evaluated are only the universities with a positive assessment for accreditation by the National Agency for Assessment and Accreditation. In Bulgaria the accredited universities are over 50.
VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” by rating is ahead of universities like University of National and World Economy, University of Architecture, Civil Engineering Geodesy and New Bulgarian University.

In the research the team from the Institute for National Policy has complied with:
      - the starting points of the developed by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Science Rating System of the universities in Bulgaria;
      - the general principles of the educational systems in Europe;
      - the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS);
      - the European Programme for academic mobility.
Among the criteria by which this scale is made are: the number of student applicants for one place; the weighted average number of academic rank faculty (professors, associate professors, doctors and doctors of science); the number of foreign students; relevance of knowledge at the end of learning (qualification framework); facilities; conditions for learning and science research; national and international scientific events; library and more.

Source: newspaper "Telegraph" from 29.04.2010 

Assoc. Prof. Galina Shamonina Ph.D., Director of the Foreign Language Teaching Department at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” took the “Golden Muse” this year. The award is in recognition of her pedagogical activity, of her high artistic achievements and personal contribution to the development of the Bulgarian-Russian cultural relations. On the solemn ceremony Assoc. Prof. Galina Shamonina Ph.D. said: “I accept the award as recognition for the university, where I work, for the tireless efforts and support of the academic leadership for quality language training of the students. Personally the magic of success is in the love of the profession, the love for the Russian language and culture. This magic is the key to all closed doors.”
This year the big prize - the Grand “Golden Muse” was posthumously awarded to the great opera bass Boris Christoff - for his great contribution in promoting our country to the world and promoting the Russian culture in our country.

Assoc. Prof. Galina Shamonina Ph. D.

A special award for lifetime achievement was given to the opera singer Stoyan Popov and to the famous dancer and choreographer Biser Deyanov - “the living legend of the Bulgarian ballet”.
The famous art critic and scientist Prof. Ivan Marazov was also awarded with “Golden Muse”. 

The distinction “Fashion is beauty” of “Brisay”, Germany, received Dimitrina Tasheva, a student of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” for her ensembles “The Berlin Wall”, presented at the International Fashion Forum in Russe, held from 22 to 24 April 2010.

Dimitrina with the award

The mayor of Russe - eng. Bozhidar Yotov opened the event and there was a warm welcoming by Mr. Plamen Stoilov – the Governor of district with administrative center Russe.

Dimitrina Tasheva - the first on the right

The International forum began with presentations and innovative demonstrations, and later in the evening in the City Theatre was held a fashion show – “Competition for young designers”, with the participation of ensemble “Bulgare” and trio “Unique voices”. In the fashion show participated 38 young pretenders for the award “Golden Needle”, which together with the performers from the ensemble did an incredible show. The way the clothes were presented showed their functionality in their natural environment, and the demonstration of models and athletes in sport dances brought to euphoria the guests and the representatives of the fashion industry.

Award winners

The jury consisting of journalists from leading Bulgarian media, with President Prof. Dr. Lubomir Stoykov, chose Nikolay Bozhilov from the National Art Academy for the special award “Golden Needle”. The Commission assessed the highest the models from his project “Recycling fashion” - functional clothing with futuristic vision of the range of industrial brown in combination with metal elements. This brought to the winner and prestigious award - a unique sculpture by the famous jeweler Angelo Krassini.

The award "Fashion is beauty"

In parallel with the main initiatives of the forum, under the “Richmart innovation” were made presentations by leading Bulgarian and foreign companies. The guests of the event witnessed demonstrations of some innovations in the industry, including a visit to the famous factory “Top man”. Organizers of the forum were the Municipality of Russe, the Bulgarian association of apparel and textile producers and exporters, the Branch Union of light industry producers and “Richmart innovation”, with the support of Russe region. 

VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” is a student team champion in kick-boxing, style “light contact” in the National Student Championship which took place on 24 and 25 April 2010 at the University. The contest was initiated by Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” that wished the participants success in this powerful, but also beautiful sport. Chief judge of the matches was Assoc. Prof. Dimitar Uzunov.
6 gold, 3 silver and 1 bronze medal for VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” is the statistics after the race.

In the National Student Championship in kick-boxing, style “light contact” participated students from nine Bulgarian universities: Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Technical University – Varna, Technical University - Russe, Trakia University - Stara Zagora, Academy of Economics - Svishtov, University of Economics - Varna, Burgas Free University, Plovdiv University “Paisii Hilendarski” and South-West University “Neofit Rilski” - Blagoevgrad.

Organisers of the event were the Bulgarian Confederation of kick-boxing and muay thai, the Association of University Sport “Academic” and Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. 

Plamena Dimova, a student in International Relations at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” returned home as the silver medal winner at the World Muay Thai Championship, held between 18th and 26th March 2010 in Thailand, the home country of this sport.

Plamena Dimova

619 fighters from 53 countries fought to prove best in Bangkok. Bulgaria’s national team won 3 silver and 2 bronze medals. At the women’s finals Plamena was defending her last year’s world champion title against a representative of the host country, who, at the end of the round was given 3 points by the judges, which represented a whole cycle, thus ensuring that the host competitor got the world title.
Apart from last year’s gold medal and this year’s silver one, Plamena has also won the bronze at a world championship. She has been a republican champion about 30 times. She was the bronze medalist at the European championship held in Lithuania. She has been Balkan champion, vice Balkan champion and she ranked third at the European championship in Varna.

Plamena with the medal - first from the left (in red)

On 27th March 2010 master programme students in Software Engineering were awarded their IBM certificates at Varna Free University.
Within IBM’s programmes for academic partnership, having passed successfully their exams in subjects related to acquiring knowledge and skills in working with IBM products, students are awarded non-term certificates.
The updating of the syllabuses of all courses included in the curriculum of the programme in Information Technologies at Varna Free University makes students doing the bachelor programme eligible for this certificate too.
The certificates were awarded during a seminar continually held by the department of Information Technologies in the Technological Institute at Varna Free University, whose topic was “Cloud Technologies”, lecturing Dimitar Kazakov, student in the master programme in Software Engineering.

 

On 24th and 25th February 2010 a recertification audit was held at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” in order to establish the compliance of the university’s quality management system with the requirements of the ISO 9001:2008 international standard. Following the report of compliance, written by the independent supervisory auditing committee of Bureau Veritas Certification, on 28th February 2010, Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” was awarded its third ISO 9001:2008 recertification for a period of three years, until 28th February 2013. To view the certificates, go to the ISO section of the university’s website: http://vfu.bg/. 

From 25th to the 30th May the Varna resort “St. St. Konstantin and Elana” will host an International student competition in architecture - En plein air. The organizers of the event include Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, “St. St. Konstantin and Elena” resort – Varna, Varna Municipality, The Union of Architectures in Bulgaria – Varna and The Camber of Architectures in Bulgaria – Varna.
The design tasks within the competition will be related to the Master Spatial Development Plan of the city of Varna (MSDP), according to which an artificial island opposite the resort of “St. St. Konstantin and Elena” has been planned to be built. A major reason for this to be included in the MSDP is preservation of the coastline and enriching the resort’s silhouette. The general plan includes creating a hotel-and-attraction structure on the future island. Plans also include a yacht wharf (exclusively for the hotel guests and independently of the existing one to the south), a continuation of the buna created by building a bridge or an isthmus to provide a connection by
land, as well as a parking lot. Contestants are free to choose the shape of the island as long as they comply with the pre-planned island space area of 20 ares (20,000 m2). Ten interdisciplinary teams of student-architectures and architecture-designers have been invited to enter the competition, who will be working under the supervision of one lecturer from each respective university. The competition itself will be juried by a jury comprising representatives of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, “St. St. Konstantin and Elena” resort – Varna, Varna Municipality, The Union of Architectures in Bulgaria – Varna, The Camber of Architectures in Bulgaria – Varna, guests from the partaking universities and representatives of the sponsoring companies.
The following prizes will be awarded: First prize – 1,000 lv.; Second prize – 700 lv.; Third prize – 500 lv., as well as special prizes established by the co-organisers. The resulting projects will take part in a travelling exhibition and an almanac (catalogue) will be published in Bulgarian and in English. 

German giant companies operating in the fields of industry, finance, tourism and administration are taking on eight students from VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” within the Erasmus programme. The lucky ones have been selected through a special procedure, in the presence of the manager of the European Academy of Banking, Economics and Management Heinrich Nihaves. He himself is Doctor Honoris Causa of the university. Meeting the candidates personally has proved necessary in order to make sure they are bright enough and truly motivated to do the respective jobs. Excellent command of German is among the major requirements. Most of the companies in question have representatives in Bulgaria, said a representative of the university.
Among the companies chosen are representations of TUI, Praktiker, Kärcher, as well as the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the German Savings Bank, various banks, regional governments and municipal administrations.
“It is likely that some of them may choose to stay there, but intelligent Bulgarians should work for their own country”, said Prof. Nihaves.
During their internship students not only practise a foreign language but also make friends and go on excursions.
According to the economist Anton Stoyanov, who has already come back from Germany, this is a way of developing one’s skills – something which has turned out difficult to achieve at companies and business enterprises at home. The young professional worked at the chamber of commerce and industry in Köln. He had the chance to witness the renowned German punctuality, although even if somebody was late, nothing fatal happened. This, however was extremely rare the case.

Prof. Heinrich Nihaves

“I have done two periods of internship. The first one took place at a savings bank in Germany. I have also worked in the field of real estate, as well as in a call centre. I would like to thank Varna Free University for the opportunity to do so. I have also gained experience at another company which has offices in 110 countries worldwide. I worked at the international department with colleagues of various nationalities. I had the chance to acquire some competences in other languages too. I speak English, German, Russian and I am currently studying Arabic, which is a rare, valuable language, which not many people speak. I now work in Egypt for a German company. When travelling with the Erasmus programme, each student should bear in mind that they will experience a completely different environment and way of living. Those places are few; therefore they are valuable for those who really aspire to them.
For the students who want to do an internship abroad the university provides individual study syllabuses. Moreover, this is an excellent way of gaining work experience, which is always a valuable asset in front of any future employer.”

Anton Stoyanov and Teodor Tanev

From 1st July to 30th September 2010 students from Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” are going to do their internship within the Erasmus programme in North Rhine – Westphalia, Germany. The selection procedure for singling out successful internship candidates, held on 15th March at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”, was carried out in the presence of the manager of the European Academy of Banking, Economics and Management Prof. Heinrich Nihaves, Doctor Honoris Causa of Varna Free University. He presented the requirements of the companies where the internship is planned to take place and listened to the students, who in their turn, demonstrated excellent command of spoken German and true motivation to work in an intercultural environment. Among the companies which are welcoming the distinguished students are TUI, Kärcher, Praktiker, the Municipality of Düren etc.
Due to Prof. Nihaves’ cooperation, more than 100 students have done internships in Westphalia, Germany in the last five years, and since 2008 Erasmus internships have also been organised.

Prof. Heinrich Nihaves                                                                                                            

Managers and experts from the National Chamber of Independent Appraisers in the Republic of Bulgaria took part in the second module in communicative culture of leaders, which was held on 13th March 2010 at Varna Free University. The training was organized by the Institute of Communicative Culture of Leaders, and took place within the framework of the International Academy for Leaders, chaired by the Rector Prof. DSc Anna Nedyalkova, who, at the end of the seminar, presented all participants with certificates.
An official guest at the opening ceremony was Bulgaria’s ambassador in India, Vietnam and Somalia Mr. Dimitar Bozhilov, who gave a lecture in Business and Diplomatic Protocol. Other disciplines included: Orthoepy and Stylistic Effects, Behaviour of Leaders in front of TV Cameras, Communication between Leaders, Journalists and Media, Culture of Leaders’ Apparel, A Leader’s Personal Image and Live Interview. The seminar was held in the conference hall of the Russian Centre at Varna Free University, as well as in the university’s training TV studio and radio.

Fourteen students from Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, doing a degree in Fashion and Management in Fashion, were given credit for their talent by an international jury which ranked the projects they presented for the final stage of the International Contest JEANSATION 2010", held in Monte Carlo from 25th to 28th November, 2010.
An event of this kind has been organized for the first time worldwide, with the main theme being: Haute Couture – Inspiration”. This theme combines the term JEANS in fashion with the traditions and principles of French Haute Couture.
The best projects and photos of models will be published in a special luxury JEANSATION Album (Limited Edition) on a compact disk, which will be distributed over the world, while a collection of the prize-winning models and the best 25 creations on the competition will be displayed in Paris. 

Following an invitation from the Faculty of Economics at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” a delegation from the University of Engineering and Economics in St. Petersburg visited the Varna university from 9th to 12th March 2010. The delegation, which included Prof. Aleksey Gavrilovich Makarov, Prof. Igor Leonidovich Andreev and Prof. Irina Olegovna Cherkasova, aimed at meeting the Management Body of Varna Free University, the Management Body of Deans, as well as the Head of Departments, at familiarizing themselves with the university facilities, with the activity of the Erasmus Office and the Projects Office, at the same time expressing a keen interest in co-working with the university, including student and lecture exchange between the two institutions.

On February 12, 2010 was signed a social contract between the university and business representatives which will support the initiative of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” - “Partnership for student employment”. The event was attended by mayors of municipalities from district of Varna, business representatives and various institutions and students. The partnership aims at creating of conditions which will support the opportunities of the young people in our country to continue to learn and develop their knowledge and skills, despite the difficulties caused by the global economic crisis.

“This is a unique meeting, which aim to create more flexible system in which students are less dependent on the economic situation in which we live,” said Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova - Rector of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”.
In her words the students should have the conditions to work and earn personal income which they will invest in their education.

According to a survey made by the university 85 % of the interruption of the training is mainly due to the financial and economic reasons. “Students rely on their parents, but now the situation is difficult,” said Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova.
This practice is popular in other countries, and now VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” will help its students never to stop learning.

Both sides expressed their willingness to develop the necessary interaction between the university and the employers and to achieve an effective exchange of information which will support students and employers in matching their interests.
In support of the full-time students, concluded a labor agreement, VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” will create special conditions for teaching, conducting exercises and advice on learning material that was omitted due to workload. There will be also an opportunity for recognition of the number of credits, where the specifics of the work made by the students are included in the subject coverage of their specialty.
Employers, in turn, must ensure normal working conditions, to comply with labor and social security legislation, to pay regular salaries to the students and etc.

The head of the Sofia office of the “Konrad Adenauer” Foundation, Dr. Andreas von Below visited Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. His visit was related to the negotiation of future joint activities and projects with the university. The Foundation's interest is directed mainly to the Black Sea cooperation.

At the meeting with the Rector of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” - Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Dr. Andreas von Below said that the university plays a very important role not only in the region of Varna but also beyond it. ... “The energy with which you move things forward is absolutely impressive”..., noted in his speech to the leadership of Varna Free University Dr. Andreas von Below.

Before the meeting the head of the Sofia office of “Konrad Adenauer” Foundation was acquainted with the facilities of the university and he didn’t hide his impression of his visit to the library, the Technological Institute, the Educational and Sports complex and the Russian center. At the end of the visit, Dr. Andreas von Below gave books published by the Foundation, including “Tolerance is the soul of Europe” with thoughts of the Federal Chancellor of Germany - Mrs. Angela Merkel, who is also a member of the Foundation, as well as a book about Mrs. Herta Müller - a winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature.

Throughout 70 offices and projects in over 120 countries “Konrad Adenauer” Foundation give its contribution for strengthening democracy, rule of law and social market economy. To ensure peace and freedom the Foundation supports continuity of foreign policy dialogue and exchange between different cultures and religions. Its partners are government institutions, political parties, civil society organizations and selected elites.

 

On February 10, 2010 at the conference hall of the Russian center at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” was held a seminar on topic: “Get your students talking with New English File”. The seminar was attended by the representative of Oxford University in Bulgaria - Mrs. Milena Kostova and Mrs. Dora Kristeva - Sales Manager at “Book House” AD.
In an interesting discussion after the presentation, teachers from the Foreign Language Teaching Department shared their experience of working with the educational system of Oxford University Press.
The focus of the seminar was on new methodological ideas to stimulate and develop the communication skills of the students and especially how to develop the skill of talking in foreign language classes.

 

There are still feasts of the Russian Center at VFU titled: “VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” - 1 year in the world of “Russian peace”.

All the events that began on 25 January and will continue until February 12, 2010 are devoted to the first anniversary of the Russian Center at Varna Free University. On February 5, 2010 the center will celebrate the 150 Anniversary of Anton Pavlovich Chekhov with Nikita Mikhalkov’s movie “Unfinished piece for mechanical piano”, on themes from the works of Chekhov. On 5 and 6 February, 2010 the Russian center will hold a seminar with the Heads of the Chambers for authentic folklore. The final event will be held on 12 February at Radio Varna. The festivals for the first anniversary of the Russian Center at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” were organized by courtesy of the General Consulate of the Russian Federation in Varna and the media partnership with Radio Varna.

Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova was awarded with the national prize "Manager Human Resources – 2009” in the category “Leader in Higher Education". At an official ceremony held on January 22, 2010 in Sofia under the patronage of the Minister of Labor and Social Policy - Totyu Mladenov, “The Human Resources in Bulgaria and European integration” Foundation and the magazine “Human Resources”, the rector of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” - Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova was awarded with the national prize "Manager Human Resources – 2009”.
The distinction is awarded in the category “Leader in Higher Education” for the correct approach and concern for the growth of the academic potential and develop and defend of the modern concepts and mechanisms for awarding academic degrees and titles.
The national prize “Human Resources” is awarded in 10 categories for outstanding contributions to professional development, innovation and implementation of socially responsible policy. The ceremony was organized for the sixth time by the magazine "Human Resources" and the “Human Resources in Bulgaria and European integration” Foundation. 

On 27 November, 2009 Dr. Pawel Samecki, the European Commissioner for Regional Policy, held a public lecture on topic: “Bulgaria in Europe, Europe in Bulgaria. Two partners - one challenge”.

During his visit in VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” the Commissioner was accompanied by Mr. Renaldo Mandmets - Head of the Bulgarian Unit in Directorate General “Regional Policy”, Mrs. Jana Trost - Program Manager at Directorate General “Regional Policy” and Mrs. Malgorzata Potocka – personal assistant of the European commissioner for regional policy. Among the official guests were: Mrs. Juliana Nikolova - Advisor to the Prime Minister and Secretary of the Council for Management of the Funds from the European Union, Dr. Liliana Pavlova - Deputy Minister of Regional Development and Public Works, Mr. Ivaylo Moscovski - Deputy Minister of Transport, Information Technology and Communication, Mrs. Dobrinka Kristeva - Director of Department “Programming of European Union Funds” at the Council of Ministers, Mrs. Nadia Genova - Head of Department “Coordination of Structural Instruments” at the Council of Ministers, Mr. Kiril Yordanov, Mayor of Varna and Mr. Dancho Simeonov, Governor of district with administrative center Varna.

The lecture by Dr. Pawel Samecki passed with great interest by students and teachers, which led a discussion after its end. There were questions about the status of the Bulgarian economy after the country's accession to the European Union and the mechanism of control over spending the EU funds, in particular Bulgaria.

At the end of the meeting, Prof. DCs. Anna Nedialkova, Rector of Varna Free University, handed a gift to Dr. Pawel Samecki - a replica of the Thracian treasure.

Students from VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” visited the main European institutions in Brussels and listened lectures specially prepared for them, associated with the euro funding for Bulgaria and with the technology for development of projects.

For a fifth consecutive year for a week students from the master program “Management of international business projects” and the master programmes “Public Administration” and “Management of European Projects” were acquainted with the work of the European institutions. In the period 09-16.11.2009 the students participated in a specially prepared for them training course in the European Parliament, Directorate-General for Education and Culture, Directorate-General for Research and Development and Directorate-General for Regional Policy. Trainees also heard lectures on the opportunities for Bulgaria to raise funds under the Structural Funds and participated in a discussion in the Council of the European Union for future changes in EU governance. Special presentations were presented to the Bulgarian students also in the Committee of the Regions, in the Permanent Representation of Bulgaria and in the Swedish Presidency. Interesting were the meetings with the Bulgarian Members of the European Parliament.

Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” is the only university in Bulgaria, which for a fifth consecutive year organizes training in Brussels for specialists with a professional interest in project management.
George Bojikov, a student from one of the master programmes at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” works in the Ministry of Regional Development. He shares with us his impressions from the visit in Brussels:
”Here we are at the heart of Europe - a group of young Bulgarians with ambitions for a diplomatic career.
Brussels is the headquarters of many international organizations: the European Commission, the Council of Europe, the European Parliament, the Western European Union. Our goal was to visit the European Parliament and to review its work. This was a chance for us, not only professional, but also very personal.
The journey was exciting and full of expectations. The chance that we have been given is unique. As young people early in their careers, we feel really doubt whether this is our career, and whether we have the qualities to fully realize this career. I personally stayed satisfied with the work of the European Parliament, of the Bulgarian and Swedish missions.
We participated in an information seminar at the European Parliament; in the regular plenary session of the European Parliament, which was currently taking place; we visited the European Commission, met with the work of the European structures and the activities of the Bulgarian MEPs. The Swedish Permanent Representation - current President of the European Union also adopted us and introduced to us their activity and upcoming tasks.
During our visit to various institutions, we were warmly welcomed and we have been provided with information and promotional materials. We met the young Bulgarians who are already working in the European structures.
Interesting and unchanged was the walk around the sights of the capital of Europe.
I'm glad I had the chance to meet with the professionalism of our diplomats, to feel the spirit of the work of the European Parliament, to be where are taken very important decisions about the future of Europe, to feel like part of a whole.”

A great interest was showed in the lecture given at the Educational and Sports Center at Varna Free University by Andrei Vladimirovich Vorobyov, Vice Director of the Information and Press Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. Its topic was: “For certain problems related to the counterfeiting of the history of World War II ”.

The prominent Russian scientist expressed his view that the rewriting of the history is dangerous and should always be truthful. He drew attention to some historical facts related to the beginning of World War II as the invasion of the Soviet Union, the decision of this attack and the consequences for modern Europe. The lecture was attended by many teachers and students from the specialities “International Relations” and “European Studies”. For them the lecturer and the topic were of great interest.

There were questions related to the protection of the Russian-speaking population in the Baltic regions. There was also a discussion about the attitude of Mr. Andrei Vorobyov to the false historical novels. Different perspectives and interesting citations were served. After the lecture, Andrei Vladimirovich Vorobyov visited the Russian center and didn’t hide his satisfaction at the extensive library available to the students studying Russian language and culture in Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.

Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” launched a project: “The Business – a partner in training of students in speciality “Informatics””, headed by Prof. Nikolay Lutov, Director of the Department of Informatics at VFU. University partners are: “Mobile Info Services”Ltd., “TEMPUS 2000”Ltd. and “Skynet Group”Ltd.

The project was won under the scheme for providing grants: BG051PO001-3.3.03: “School and student practices”, under contract № BG051PO001-3.3.03-0039 and is in force from 13.10.2009 until 12.10.2010. The total project cost is 82 033.18 lv., and its purpose is to create conditions for quality professional training in real working conditions for students in speciality „Informatics”. Other guidelines in the program of the project are the conducting of practical training of the students in companies from the IT sector and raising the qualification of the teachers in the Department of Informatics for bringing education to the needs of the practice.

Within the project 27 students in speciality “Informatics” at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” will hold for one academic year a 30 days internship in “Mobile Info Services” Ltd. and in “Skynet Group” Ltd. “TEMPUS 2000” Ltd. will take for the same period 9 students. Three employees of “Mobile Info Services” Ltd. and “Skynet Group” Ltd., and one of “TEMPUS 2000” Ltd. will be trained for mentors to students and conducting of student experience. Five teachers from Varna Free University will undergo two courses, each 60 hours to improve their skills in specific subjects.

www.BinCS.net

On 23 November, 2009 in the Russian center at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” was held an examination for obtaining of an international certificate for the level of fluency in Russian. Examiners were Dr. Elena Korchagina, Head of Test Control Department at the Institute of Russian language “Al.S.Pushkin” (Moscow) and Prof. Dr. Vladislav Lesnevski from the Russian Cultural and Information Center in Sofia.
The Students certified various levels B2, C1 and specialized Russian language for professional certificate in Russian language in the field of tourism - РЭТ 1 and РЭТ 2.

In November 2009 was published a guide for management of the events. The guide is issued on the project “Strengthening the capacity of tourism businesses in Europe and management of the events”.
The project is co-financed under the programme “Lifelong Learning”, EU programme “Leonardo da Vinci”, Transfer of Innovation and the financing amount is 231 797 Euro.
The guide was developed by a team of partner institutions, including Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”; University foundation for academic entrepreneurship in the region of Murcia, Spain; College of Business and Technology, Lithuania and the Center for Tourism, Consumer and Food Studies at the University of Liverpool “John Moores”, UK. In the development of the project participated representatives from the academic environment as well as representatives from the tourism business.
The printed guide for management of the events brings together the best European practices in management of the events. It will be presented to representatives of the tourism industry interested in realizing the described practices in their organizations, but will also help develop the capacity of the participants in organizing, planning and conducting events.

The new General Consul of the Russian Federation in Varna, Mr. Yuri Alexandrovich Solovyov, was on an official visit at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.

Immediately after his visit to Shumen on 23 October 2009, Mr. Solovyov attended VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” to get acquainted with the necessary equipment and the conditions for learning at the university. During the meeting the Rector of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova presented to the General Consul the academic authorities and familiarized him with the opportunities that VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”offers for training of Russian students. At the end of the visit, Mr. Yuri Alexandrovich Solovyov visited the Russian center at Varna Free University, stressing that he is extremely pleased with the conditions offered in VFU and he is ready to cooperate in the future plans of the Center for development of the Russian language and culture in Varna.

On 22 November 2009 a delegation from All-China Journalists’ Association visited Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.
The guests were welcomed by Prof. Dr. Pavel Pavlov, Vice-Rector of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” who familiarized them with the facilities of the university, with the faculties and the specialities studied there and with the long-term contractual relationship between Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” and the Chinese news agency Xinhua, which gave up to the university a satellite receiver for directly receiving information in seven languages - Chinese, Arabic and five Europeans.

The purpose of the visit was the delegation to be familiarize with the training at Varna Free University, with the opportunities for future exchange of Bulgarian and Chinese students, with the opportunity of studying Chinese language in the university and with the eventual creation of an educational center for Chinese language and culture in VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”.

The delegation was led by Yin Yungong, President of the Institute of Journalism and Communication at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, followed by Li Yue – Vice President of the international relations at All-China Journalists’ Association, Wang Gang - deputy editor of “Dzhansu” journal, Zhu Diane - deputy editor of the “Ksinmin” journal, Lu Huimin - honorary journalist from “Beijing evening news” journal and Xian Hong Ching - deputy head of the Military Department of the newspaper of the Chinese People’s Army.

At the end of the meeting the guests thanked for the comprehensive presentation of the university and expressed their desire for cooperation between Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” and Chinese educational institutions.

A lecture for certain problems with falsifying the history of World War II will be held on 25 November from 14:30 in the Conference hall of the Russian Center at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. Lecturer will be the prominent Russian scientist, doctor of the historical sciences, Andrei Vladimirovich Vorobyov, Vice Director of the Information and Press Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation. “Yes, the topic is difficult, but it must be spoken. Because it is too cowardly to forge closer and more distant events. We just have to face this truth against the lies and the counterfeits. Bulgarians will understand me, because we’ve always had a common language with you.” This is what the Russian scientist said in an interview for “Duma” newspaper. The whole interview can be read on: http://www.duma.bg/cgi-bin/ecms/vis/vis.pl?s=001&p=0002&n=554&g=

Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” and Assoc. Prof. Galina Shamonina Ph.D., Director of the Russian Center participated in the Third Assembly of Fund “Russian Peace” in Moscow at the personal invitation of the Executive Director of the Fund - Mr. Vyacheslav Nikonov.

The Assembly is the largest event in the activities of the Fund and it is traditionally held on the eve of The National Unity Day (04 November). This year's intellectual potential of the Fund was presented in 1000 delegates from over 80 countries. The participants were welcomed by the President of the Russian Federation Dmitry Medvedev, the Prime Minister Vladimir Putin, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Education and Science Andrei Fursenko, the Chairman of the State Duma Boris Gryzlov. Commitments to the ideas and the activities of the Fund and its centers operating in 40 countries of the world, expressed the Russian Patriarch Cyril, the Chairman of Russia’s Council of Muftis Ravil Gaynutdin and the Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar.
The President of The International Association of Teachers of Russian Language and Literature (MAPRYAL) and also president of the St. Petersburg State University, Acad. Ludmila Verbitskaya summarized the performance of the Fund in 2009: 450 are the supported educational projects in different countries; 60 modern textbooks and 15 innovative training programmes for Russian language as a foreign language are issued.
In early 2009 in Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” was opened and already actively is working the first on the Balkans Russian center. Its events and initiatives attract many students, lecturers and citizens and become a media event. The Fund “Russian Peace” highly appreciated the contribution of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” to the development of the Russian-Bulgarian relations in science, education and culture. Varna Free University has a reputation as a reliable partner in the educational and humanitarian projects.
At the personal invitation of Dmitry Medvedev, the President of Russia, Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova was a guest of the State Reception in the Georgievsky reception hall of Kremlin, given on the National Unity Day.

On 29 October 2009 on an official ceremony of the European Forum of Experts was given official honorary status – a certificate and a gold badge to VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” for high prestige and social recognition, as well as for contribution to the development of Bulgarian science.
The certificate and the gold badge were bestowed on Prof. Dr. Pavel Pavlov – Vice-Rector of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” by Mrs. Sylvie Vartan.
The nominations are made from 150 famous Bulgarian scientists and artists with international recognition, holding Gold insignia of honour for their contribution to Bulgarian science and culture.

European Forum of Experts

At the invitation of the Rector of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” and the Faculty of Economics on 27 October 2009 was held scientific and practical public forum on the topic: "Where and how to invest after the end of the financial crisis.". Lecturers together with Alexander Nikolov and Christina Doncheva from “Karoll Capital Management” Inc. - Sofia showed the specifics of management, revealed investment opportunities due to the financial crisis and provided products and services of “Karoll Capital Management” in this direction. This visit has been prepared in co-operation agreement between “Karoll Capital Management” Inc. and the Faculty of Economics at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”, with an emphasis on professional and practical training and opportunity for approbation of new methodologies, tools, etc. related to the business management.
The agreement will be signed in Sofia on the territory of “Karoll Capital Management” Inc.

Official delegation led by Acad. Stefan Dodunekov - Director of the Institute of Mathematics and Informatics at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS), visited Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” on 27 October 2009. The purpose of the visit was the signing of a cooperation agreement between Kettering University in the city of Flint, Michigan, USA and VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”.

Recognizing the importance of mutual cooperation and contribution of the universities to the society, mainly from the research activities conducted by them, both sides expressed their willingness to cooperate in enhancing and enriching the educational and scientific experience which they possess. The main purpose of the agreement is to provide a common basis on which to be build joint activities of academic and cultural nature in which to take part faculties and students from Kettering University and VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”. Under the program, developed by the two universities will be established contacts and joint projects, organization of summer courses, management of Senior Projects (educational program in Canada, the United States and other countries where English is a leading educational system) and collaborative research on level faculties and students.

The agreement was signed by Prof. John Geske - Head of the Computer Science Department at Kettering University and Prof. Dr. Pavel Pavlov – Vice-Rector of Varna Free University.

Among the officials were also Dr. Fausto Rabiti - Director of the research activities at the Institute of Information Science and Technology of the Italian National Research Council, Dr. Giuseppe Amato from the same institute, and Prof. Peter Stanchev - Head of the Information Systems Department at the Institute of Mathematics and Informatics of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS).

On 13 and 14 October, 2009 in Czech Republic was conducted the Second International Conference “Intelligent Technologies for Video Communications”. It was held within the European Network for Video Education and Research (ENOVER). Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University, participated in the opening of the conference from Bulgaria through videomost together with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dobrin Denev - rector of UACEG (University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy). In the conference took part partners from the European Network for Video Education and Research ENOVER, which support cooperation with VFU - 26 European countries - Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, France, Germany, Sweden, Great Britain, Spain and others. In process of developing are modules for video conference training as part of the University network. VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” participated with a report on the application of adaptive web-based e-learning systems.

You can watch the statement from Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova here!

Lecturers from the Department of Economics at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Assistant Prof. Iva Moneva, Assistant Prof. Nikolina Grozeva and Assistant Prof. Sylvia Bratoeva-Manoleva took part in International Conference "The Social Sciences Research Society" in Turkey, the city of Izmir. The conference was organized by Dokuz Eylul University for second year. The reports of the participants were divided into forty-two sections, five reports in each section. The skilful distribution of the reports in the sections and the good organization of the conference made communication between colleagues extremely successful. There were guests from many countries - Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Serbia, Poland, Iran, Australia, India, Malaysia, Russia, France, Germany, Canada, Ukraine, Hungary and Belgium. Many of them showed interest in Bulgaria, Varna, and in particular in VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” and expressed their desire to participate in such event, organized by our University. Reports from the conference are published in a collection that is available in our library. At the end of the forum organizers handed certificates for participation in the conference.
Iva Moneva, Nikolina Grozeva and Silvia Bratoeva Manoleva are graduated students from the Department of Economics at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.

The first GRID seminar on leadership was carried out at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.
In the period 04-08 October 2009 VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” hosted the first GRID seminar on leadership in Bulgaria. The teams participated in the seminar studied the model of GRID, which improves the efforts and the personal creative potential, develops the skills, productivity and entrepreneurial spirit of the individuals. The training is designed to promote the sustainability of organizations by activating the abilities of prominent executives, professionals and experts.

The future leaders had to absorb the team work techniques and individual work, to produce concepts and strategies for corporate management, personal development strategies and organizational behavior of individuals. The goal is to improve the participants personal skills to take initiative, presentation and argumentation of opinion, conflict resolution, decision making, crisis management, prevention of failure, the exercise of criticism, change and achievement planned objectives. Moderator of the Forum was Mrs. Christiane Tiyle - advisor and licensed trainer in GRID International, Germany. In the last day of the seminar the participants received certificates for completed course in leadership. Diplomas were awarded by the President of the Academy of Leaders of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” - Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, the rector of Varna Free University and Prof. Heinrich Nihaves - manager of the European Academy of Banking, Economics and Management. Special guest at the ceremony was the President of the World Association of Schools and Institutes of Public Administration and Director of the Institute of public management and public services at Florida International University, Prof. Allan Rosenbaum.

Prof. Heinrich Nihaves Prof. Allan Rosenbaum

On 09 October 2009 from 10:00 pm in Hall 2 of the Educational and Sports complex of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” a lecture on topic: "Structure of municipal government in West Germany and pleas for the creation and development of German and foreign companies. Opportunities for participation in Erasmus for VFU students and conversion after graduation.” Was given by Prof. Neinrich Nihaves. He is the manager of the European Academy of Banking, Economics and Management Prof. Heinrich Nihaves and also Doctor Honoris Causa of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.

On a special ceremony in the Revenue hall at the Presidency, the President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Mr. Georgi Parvanov bestowed an Honorary sign on Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. The award was for her outstanding contribution to conservation and development of scientific and artistic potential in Varna, for her fruitful work in science, education and culture.
"In her face we see tireless advocate for the modernization of the Higher education in Bulgaria," Parvanov said. In his words, Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, never stops working for the development of active dialogue between business and science. "Serious criteria for her contribution to Bulgarian science is the number of students who graduate fromVarna Free University", said Mr. Georgi Parvanov.
Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova expressed extreme gratitude for the received honors. "I discover a great message in this, that the President continues to be a patron of the science in Bulgaria. He always supported us wholeheartedly”, said Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova.

Over 2800 first-year students at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” received their student books on 28 September 2009 on a special ceremony at the university. In the new academic year 2009/2010, more than 10 000 students will be trained in 12 bachelor’s, 17 master’s and 8 doctoral’s degree programmes.
The ceremony held in the courtyard of the university was opened and led by Prof. Dr. Galia Gercheva - Vice-Rector of Varna Free University. Official guests were: Assoc. Prof. Svilen Neykov Ph.D. - Minister of Physical Education and Sport, Mr. Kiril Yordanov - Mayor of Varna Municipality, Mr. Ralph Radars - Head of Sector "Lifelong Learning, Erasmus and Jean Monnet” at the Executive Agency in the European Commission, the Olympic champion in rowing and Academic honorary citizen of Varna – Mrs. Rumyana Neykova, Eng. Slavcho Slavov – Vice-Governor of district with administrative center Varna, Mr. Pavel Dimitrov - MP in the 41-th National Assembly, Prof. Vladimir Mako - Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at Belgrade State University.

In her speech, Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, Rector of Varna Free University, talked about the new academic projections, which the university will implement in the current academic year. Aim will be the realization of the basic motto of the university - a high quality educational process and actively interact with business partners. New moment in the university activities will be the ambition to preserve and develop the young intellectual elite. Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova announced that the university provides six scholarships to excellent students from different schools in Varna who continue their education at VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”.
Head of Sector "Lifelong Learning, Erasmus and Jean Monnet” at the Executive Agency in the European Commission, Mr. Ralph Radars, expressed his satisfaction with the strategy set up at Varna Free University, which fully complies with the strategy pursued by the European Commission. He pointed out that the academic training is excellent and congratulated the students with getting DS Label, the newest European honor - a sign for recognition of their education in Europe and respectful in countries which recognize the european education. Of 181 European universities, who have applied for this certificate, only 52 were honored with this high distinction. "Students should be proud that they are studying in this university," added in conclusion, Mr. Ralph Radars.
By decision of the Senate of Varna Free University, the Olympic champion in rowing Rumyana Neykova was honored with the title “Honorary member of the Academic community of Varna Free University”. The title was given for her contribution to the promotion of Bulgaria, the sport and the sport activity among young people. Dr. Krassimir Nedyalkov, Assistant Rector and chairman of the sport club at Varna Free University, announced the decision of the club Mrs. Rumyana Neykova to be honored with the title “Honorary president of the University sport club”. Mrs. Rumyana Naykova turned to the first-year students with wishes for a successful new academic year and successful start in their education.

With the title “Honorary member of the Academic community of Varna Free University” was awarded and the Minister of Physical Education and Sport, Asoc. Prof. Svilen Nejkov Ph.D. This title was given for his contributions to the development of sport and hopes for the future development of youth activities. Minister Svilen Neykov told those who presented that he is for the first time at Varna Free University and is surprised by the high level of teaching and the modern technology, which are established at the university. "... You have the necessary equipment and wonderful lecturers. You have your evaluation of the European Commission of the European Union, which is our common goal. This sign, which the university received is a guarantee that the road on which you walk is correct. Our aim in the future is to be closer to the European standards, not only in Bulgaria, but to win European and global level. You are our future potential and we are proud of you. I wish you to find the best way to absorb knowledge and talent”. The Minister of Physical Education and Sport, presented on behalf of the Association “Varna Free University”, student books and scholarships for the first-year students. The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Mr. Yani Yanev announced the decision on awarding six students with special scholarships. Two personal scholarships were provided from the Rector, Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, one scholarship from the Vice-Rector Prof. Dr. Pavel Pavlov, who also gave student books and announced scholarships on behalf of the Russian center at the university.
Warm welcome to the lecturers and students served the Mayor of Varna Mr. Kiril Yordanov and Eng. Slavcho Slavov - Vice-Governor of district with administrative center Varna. On behalf of the first-year students to the participants in the celebration turned Valeria Zlateva. She assured the leadership of the university and the lecturers that the new class will continue and enrich the academic traditions.
Special greeting gave Prof. Vladimir Mako - Dean of the Faculty of Architecture of Belgrade State University.
Special artistic greeting to the participants served students from different specialties led by Prof. Peter Angelov and Prof. Ognyan Kachev.

After the official ceremony at the conference hall of the University was held a discussion on topic: "LLL - a key factor in the transition to economy and society based on knowledge”. In the opening of the discussion the Rector, Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, noted that VFU “Chernorizets Hrabar” is the first training center in Bulgaria to introduce training in this system. She pointed the personal merits of the President of Bulgaria Mr. Georgi Parvanov. Presentation for the work, the university did on the system was made by Prof. Theodora Bakardjieva.
For the new projections and prospects of "Lifelong Learning" spoke Mr. Ralph Radars - Head of Sector "Lifelong Learning, Erasmus and Jean Monnet” at the Executive Agency in the European Commission.
For the Bulgarian practice, problems and trends of this system spoke Asoc. Prof. Magdalena Ivanova Ph.D. - an expert on the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) in the European Commission.

From 28 to 30 September 2009 Varna Free University hosted the IX-th National Conference with international participation "Humanism and pragmatism in the education of XXI century".
Representatives from different schools worked on the topics of the conference and at the end of the forum they were able to submit their proposals, prepare reports and take part in the discussions on the topic of the meeting “Jan Amos Comenius and Contemporary Education”.
The Forum was held in partnership between the Ministry of Education, Youth and Science , Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, National Association of Municipalities in the Republic of Bulgaria and the Czech and Slovak Club in Bulgaria.

The film "Heraclea Lyncestis - Terra Cognita", directed by Peter Pavlov from the Media center at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, was presented on the second edition of International Art Forum "Without Borders”. The art forum was organized in the period 18 – 20 September 2009 in ”The Palace” - Balchik. The video tells of the ancient city of Heraclea (modern Bitola) Macedonia, which was founded by Philip II. For Theodoric the Great, who destroyed this place twice. Emphasis is on the history of east and west of Bitola, which were part of the Roman Empire. For the road “Via Ignatius” which was set during the time of the proconsul Ignatius and which served for the movement of the Roman Legion, etc.. Terra Cognita (Known Land) is the second title of the film, because as the authors say, the place has a very rich history. Script-writer of the film is Kaloyan Smilkov.

The Second International Art Forum included in itself an art management conference. The conference involved more than forty leading international promoters from the field of music and culture from 24 countries on 4 continents. Within the forum on 19 and 20 September was held also an international art festival, which included the leading musicians and artists from Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Israel, Italy, Norway, Romania, Slovenia, Turkey and Sweden. There were classical music, ethnic / world music and jazz music concerts, and also presentation and exhibition of artists. All art events of 19 and 20 September were from 17:00.

Peter Pavlov

Organizers of the event were The Chamber of Commerce - Varna, in partnership with the Art Network “Skenderman” and “The Palace” - Balchik.
The event was held with the media partners ECON.BG, CNN, BBC, Bulgarian Telegraph Agency - LIK, Bulgarian National Radio, Musicport – Great Britain, newspaper “Now”, Simya - Turkey, Red Orange - Great Britain, NPS - Netherlands, Radio6 - Netherlands, Facebook, kafene.net, Carrera Linn Cultural Exchange - United States, "The Program", dobrichcity.com, Mediawave - Hungary, Film Plus Production - Ukraine, moreto.net, Imperial Art Complex - Varna, Dnevnik, Phenix Foundation - Romania, Jazz FM Radio, Brosella - Belgium, vlastta.com, Jazz Denmark - Denmark, Classic FM Radio, dir.bg, Aris Advertising Agency, Alt Production - Hungary, dobrich.info, Decontamination Cultural Center - Macedonia, Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”, Association La belle usine - Luxembourg / Israel / USA, Limitationes - Austria, liternet.bg, antenneair.com, Open Siberia - Russia.
The entrance to visit the forum was free (you had to pay only the entrance ticket for the complex "The Palace" / Botanical Garden).

In the period 3-7 August 2009 the Russian centre at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” starts Summer training school “Contemporary pedagogical methods in the study of Russian language as a foreign language”.
The Summer training school is dedicated to the Year of Bulgaria in Russia and the 210th anniversary of Al. S. Pushkin's birth.
The school is held within an international project with Russian Peace Fund and with the assistance of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Science of the Republic of Bulgaria. The lecturers of the School will be leading experts in the field of methodology of teaching Russian as a foreign language - Prof. DSc. Leonid Moskovkin – a professor in Saint Petersburg State University and Herzen State Pedagogical University of Russia, director of the secretariate in The International Association of Teachers of Russian Language and Literature (MAPRYAL) and Assoc. Prof. Olga Lazareva PhD from Department “The Russian language as a foreign language and methods of teaching”, Faculty of Philology and Arts at the Saint Petersburg State University, Dr. Stoyanka Pochekanska – senior expert in Russian language at the Ministry of Education, Youth and Science and Assoc. Prof. Galina Shamonina PhD – director of “Foreign Language Teaching Department” at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”.
The Summer training school will be opened by the rector of Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova, who is the Chairwoman of the Board in the Russian centre, in the presence of many official guests – diplomats and representatives of the executive in the city.

A second introductory seminar on Grid technology was carried out at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” on 25th July 2009. The seminar was organized from Grid Institute – VFU, which is part of the Academy for Leaders established at the University. Moderator of the seminar was Mrs. Christiane Tiyle, advisor and licensed trainer in Grid International, Germany.
The worldwide recognized Grid model activates the efforts and the creative potential of individuals and develop their skills, productivity and entrepreneurship. It is a strategy for change and development. The training on this system contributes to increase the sustainability of the organizations by activating the abilities of outstanding senior executives, specialists and experts in respect of taking initiative, presentation and argumentation of opinion, conflict solving, decision-making, dealing with crisis situations, failure prevention, exercise of criticism, change and achievement of planned objectives.
Conduct of a second seminar in Varna Free University was provoked by the first introductory Grid seminar held successfully on March 16, 2009, attended by more than 80 representatives of business, public sector and academia.
The increasing demand for construction and improvement of personal and team skills in a competitive environment, set the beginning of a series of 5-day Seminars on Leadership Grid, which will be held from 4 to 8 October, 2009, from 22 to 26 November, 2009 and from 7 to 11 February, 2010.

An International student summer school was organized from 13th to 20th July 2009 at the Institute of Economics, Podolsk, Russia. The School was attended by students from Russia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Germany and Bulgaria. Eight students from the specialities “Informatics” and “Public Administration” at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” took part in it. They presented four reports (three in English and one in Russian), as follows:
1. “Impact of economic crisis in the IT sector in Bulgaria and worldwide - current status and outlook” – Yulian Aleksandrov Yordanov, 4th year, speciality “Informatics” and Rafi Hachik Karagiozov, 4th year, speciality “Public Administration”;
2. “Financial crisis and licensing software” – Daniel Zhivkov Zhelyazkov, 2nd year, speciality “Informatics”;
3. “Financial crisis and the massive Internet search engines” – Aleksandar Dimitrov Dimitrov, 2nd year, speciality “Informatics”;
4. “World crisis and mass used operating systems” - Ovanes Etvart Karkkeselyan, 2nd year, speciality “Informatics”.
Upon closing of the summer school, the students received certificates of attendance. Their reports will be printed soon.
During the period 3rd – 10th August 2009 the Department of Informatics in Faculty of Economics at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” will organize student scientific practice especially for the students from speciality “Business Informatics” at the Institute of Economics, Podolsk, Russia.

It was for the first time that the public of Varna saw the projects for renovation of the green spaces in residential complex “Mladost” worked out by students majoring in Architecture speciality. All architects-to-be took part in the International workshop landscape planning and design „LAND SO BUILT” and guest lecturers were Prof. Dr. Arch.. Mikela De Poli and Arch. Adriano Marangon from the University of Architecture in Venice, Italy. On the opening of the forum the Mayor of Mladost region – Yordanka Yunakova rewarded the winners of the contest organized earlier at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar”. The winners Yuliyan Nachev and Iliya Tsonev with project “Tornado” shared the first place with Hristo Hadzhiyski and project “Urban vegetable gardens”. The project “Green veins” by Yordanka Vicheva, Elena Nacheva and Vanya Gencheva took the second place. The third place remained for Dimitar Katsarov and Ivan Kovachev and their project “The bridge”.
All the winners will have the opportunity to train and practice at the University of Architecture in Venice.
There was also a prize for the public which went to the youngest architects Tsveta Zhekova and Hristina Dimova – second year in the University.
The event was organized jointly with the University of Architecture in Venice and Mladost region, Varna.

On an official ceremony in Brussels on the 11th June 2009 Mr. Jan Figel, a member of the European Commission handed out to the Rector of Varna Free University Prof. Anna Nedyalkova the label for the European Diploma Application ‘DS Label’ in the presence of Mrs. Odile Quintin, Director General for Education, Training, Culture and Youth in the European Commission. 65 higher education institutions from 16 countries were awarded with special European quality labels in recognition of their efforts to make it easier for students to study abroad. These labels are given to universities which have shown excellence in applying the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) and the Diploma Supplement (DS).
Of the 63 European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System applications, 23 higher education institutions received the label. Of the 161 Diploma Supplement applications, 52 higher education institutions became a holder of a DS label. Ten education institutions received both labels.
From all the Bulgarian candidates for the DS and ECTS labels in the period 2009 – 2013 only Varna Free University was awarded the DS label.

The procedure was hold with the participation of independent experts to guarantee the fullness of the results from the assessment on European level. The final decision for the label holders of the European Diploma Supplement DS and ECTS was taken after a discussion between the European Agency and the European Commission.
The DS label is given to institutions which issue European Diploma Supplement to all students with Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in compliance with the model tested and refined by the European Commission, the Council of Europe and UNESCO.

The Diploma Supplement (DS) is a document certifying the quality of the education. The European Diploma Supplement is above all a key aim in the realization of the Bologna process. It is a document attached to a higher education diploma with the aim of improving international ‘transparency’ and of facilitating the academic and professional recognition of qualifications (diplomas, degrees, certificates, etc.) It should be free from any value-judgements, equivalence statements or suggestions about recognition. It is a flexible, non-prescriptive tool which is designed to save time, money and workload. It ensures easier recognition of qualifications in different countries and different employers – a prerequisite for a successful professional realization.

An international conference on the subject ‘Applied Psychology in Bulgaria – opportunities and perspectives’ was opened today, 19th June 2009 at VFU ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’. For the eighth year in succession the academic team of the professional area ‘Psychology’ gathered the professional elite from around the country. 4 professors, 18 associate professors, 9 PhDs, 8 doctoral students, 17 specialists and 8 students are presenting papers in the scientific forum. For three days they will lead discussions in two sections. The scientific research in the first section involves topical problems of school and social psychology, ethnopsychology and psychology of the culture. Analyses in the area of psycho diagnostics, clinical psychology and consultative psychology, psychology of security and behaviour in extreme situations are discussed in the second section. Scientists from nine Bulgarian universities, the Bulgarian Academy of Science and specialists from different institutions take part in the forum. Students from the speciality Psychology at VFU ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’ are actively involved, too.

More than 4800 are the applicants for the specialities at VFU ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’ who have sat for an exam during the week (15th – 19th June). The first and the only university in Bulgaria which was awarded the European quality label for education ‘DS Label’ is again among the most preferred higher education institutions in the upcoming academic year. Among the most desired specialities are ‘Law’ and ‘Architecture’ for the Master’s educational and qualification degree. For the Bachelor’s degree the greatest interest is towards the specialities ‘Protection of National Security’, ‘Public Administration’, ‘Structural Engineering’ and ‘Space Design’, as well as towards the newest ones: ‘International Marketing’, ‘Finance and Accounting’, the two areas of the speciality ‘Computer Studies’: ‘Computer Networks and Systems’ and ‘Applied Information Technologies’, and the areas of the speciality ‘International Relations’: ‘International Law’, ‘Eurointegration’ and ‘Diplomacy and Politics’.
The greatest number of applicants gathered the exams in Essay writing on a socially important topic, History of Bulgaria, Bulgarian Language and Literature, Mathematics.

In the period 24th-26th June 2009 the non-profit association ‘Varna Free University Association’ will carry out a three-day training seminar for representatives of the nongovernmental organizations and local authorities. During the training the following topics will be presented: ‘Communication Skills’ and ‘How to work with the European Institutions’ The seminar will be carried out under project ‘Capacity Development of the Nongovernmental Sector for Effective Partnership with the Local Administration’ under the Operational Programme Administrative Capacity.
The project is co-financed by the European social fund and totals up to 185, 554.64 lv.

A seminar to present the opportunities for VFU to take part in the project ENOVER (European network for video training) was carried out on 9th June 2009 in hall 1 of the Technological Institute of Varna Free University. A video line technology of Polycom was presented by making a video bridge between VFU and the University of Ostrava. The event was organized together with the Department of Informatics and the Technological Institute within the frames of the Academy for Computer Leadership of VFU ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’.

The first and the only international conference Space in the European Architecture – tradition and novelty was organized from the 3rd to 5th June 2009 in the Balchik Palace under the patronage of Prof. Stephan Danailov – the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Bulgaria and Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova – Rector of Varna Free University ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’. It is a continuation and development of the traditional conference of the Faculty of Architecture in Varna Free University ‘Chernorizets Harbar’ – ‘Architecture, construction – Modern Times’.
Representatives of 12 university and scientific centres from around the country and from abroad and leading construction companies presented over 50 scientific papers in the area of architecture, urban planning, design for the architecture, landscape architecture, preservation of the cultural and historical heritage and bioarchitecture.
Eminent representatives of academic communities and active architects from Italy, Germany, Serbia and Iran, such as Prof. DSc. Giuseppe Longhi – a professor in Urbanism in the Faculty of Architecture at the University of Architecture of Venice, Italy; Angelo Grasso from Rome, Italy, the President of CECODHAS – the European Liaison Committee for Social Housing; Prof. Dr. Arch. Masud Esmailow, a member of the Association of Sustainable Planning Green House and lecturer at the University of Architecture of Venice; Prof. Dr. Arch. Mikela de Polli from the University of Architecture of Venice, Italy; the professor in Economics, Management and Inovations – Marcus Lempa, a lecturer at the University of Economics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Prof. Vladimir Mako, a philosopher and art expert, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at the State University, Beograd, Serbia and Prof. Arch. Milanka Brakovich from the Union University in Beograd, Serbia all delivered lectures .

The attention was focused on an eternal topic – Space in Architecture and the Modern World.
Bulgaria - an heir of the achievements of Thracians, Ancient Greeks and Romans as a nation has reached its peak in the Medieval and Renaissance Architecture and has good reasons and is responsible for transferring the historical tradition in the present, for defending the achieved and for developing it.
For a third year in concession the Faculty of Architecture at VFU ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’ works on the subject of Bioarchitecture - the Sustainable Architecture whose topicality and importance take one of the first places in the world in the last years. The stability is not limited to energy expenses reduction; it is also connected with the ancient philosophy for harmony between humans and nature.
The mission of VFU to prepare specialists - architects and engineers is to a great extend an attempt to protect and develop cultural values together with the applied most modern methods of construction.

‘I am impressed by what I see as a development, as facilities and as academic achievements. I understood that Varna Free University would be the first university in Bulgaria with an official accreditation for the credits approved by the European Union (Diploma Supplement Label). If there is one area in which we can say that it is important for Bulgaria to develop and to go ahead, we will probably reject all others but education’, this is what the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria Ivailo Kalfin in his public lecture under the title ‘European Membership of Bulgaria – results and perspectives’ on 29th May 2009 at VFU ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’.

On the meeting Mr. Kalfin was accompanied by the Minister of Economy and Energy Peter Dimitrov. After the lecture of the Minister of Foreign Affairs they both answered a lot of questions of lecturers and students.
Some of the topics discussed during the discussion were: clear national positions and interests, how Bulgaria can gain prestige in the European Union, how the EU funds were put into use, students loans.
Minister Kalfin declared that by the end of 2009 Bulgaria will continue to put into use the Pre-Accession Assistance and then will enter a new stage in the cooperation with countries from the European Council.

‘The Bulgarian person has to have self-esteem. The relations with the European Union are not worked out only by Ministers, Prime Ministers and European MPs but by all of us. The European Union is a complex structure in which there exists cooperation between universities and Varna Free University is one of the most active universities within the frames of the university cooperation in Europe. There is a cooperation of municipalities, regions, separate sectors in the economy, of countries and as such this is a whole set of cooperation opportunities. What is really important is to defend our national values and interests. And in these national goals and national interests everyone to coordinate their efforts‘.
The Minister of Economy and Energy Peter Dimitrov concluded that being Europeans the problems of the new member-countries of the European Union are our common problems and they will be solved only if we develop fast which is what happens in the last ten years on the Balkans.

Before the beginning of the lecture the Rector of VFU ‘Chernorizets Hrabar’ Prof. DSc. Anna Nedyalkova awarded the two ministers the university’s golden badge of honour. After that the guests were acquainted with the renewed facilities, the newly opened Russian centre and in the new Educational and Sport Complex the Minister of the Foreign Affairs was given a volley ball by a representative of the Sports Club at Varna Free University.