“Exploring the World with GIS” 2026 Competition Invites Students and Lecturers to Submit Their Projects
06 october 2026
.png)
Students and lecturers at Varna Free University “Chernorizets Hrabar” can take part in the 2026 National Educational Competition “Exploring the World with GIS” by submitting interactive projects on a topic of their choice. The university is a partner in the initiative. Registration is open until October 10th, and the deadline for submitting projects is October 31st, 2026. The initiative is organized by Esri Bulgaria and the Ministry of Education and Science, with Varna Free University among its partners.
The competition gives participants the opportunity to use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to present academic research, a topic from their studies, or an idea they are passionate about. Entries can take the form of an interactive lesson, digital story, web application, map, 3D visualization, or another type of GIS project. Possible subject areas include ecology, economics, demographics, technology, history, and cultural heritage.
Using applications available on the ArcGIS platform, participants can combine maps, data, images, text, and visualizations. Each project must include at least one 2D or 3D map.
For the first time, award recipients will have the opportunity to join the “Exploring the World with GIS” Winners’ Club. The new community will provide opportunities to exchange ideas and experience, connect with experts from Esri Bulgaria, and participate in initiatives aimed at developing geospatial technology skills. All award recipients will also receive a digital badge.
Projects that meet the competition requirements will be featured in a virtual exhibition marking World GIS Day 2026. Prizes will include cash and other awards, specialized GIS training courses, vouchers, and publication opportunities. A People’s Choice Award will also be presented for the second consecutive year.
Registration for the competition is available here, and the full competition rules are available on the competition page.