Bulgaria: from schools to innovation hubs – 28 vocational schools become CoVEs

In recent years, centres of vocational excellence (CoVEs) have become a key element of the EU Skills Agenda, aimed at reforming vocational education and training (VET) systems. The initiative’s core objective is to ensure the development of high-quality skills aligned with the needs of a dynamic labour market and the principles of an innovative and sustainable economy. Bulgaria is taking a major step toward modernising its vocational education system by establishing 28 CoVEs, one in each administrative region. VET schools across the country are being transformed into modern hubs for skills development, innovation, and regional growth.

CoVEs are funded by the Bulgarian Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) and are located in leading VET schools across the country. Their aim is to equip students with high-demand skills for the evolving labour market and to foster regional innovation ecosystems. The initiative is set to strengthen collaboration between education, business, and local communities, while promoting digitalisation and green technologies as key drivers of sustainable growth.

The selected VET institutions are in the process of modernisation to meet the highest technological standards, and will be equipped with advanced solutions, alongside fully upgraded learning environments designed for both social and professional interaction. The total budget allocated amounts to BGN 96 960 000 (approximately EUR 49.5 million), with a maximum of BGN 3 462857 (approximately EUR 1.75 million) for each centre.

The implementation process began in mid-2023, following a rigorous evaluation stage. Vocational schools were assessed based on multiple criteria, including adaptability to change, capacity to meet regional labour market needs, and potential to establish collaborative ecosystems with stakeholders.

The first CoVE was officially launched in December 2024 in the city of Vidin, located in Bulgaria’s Northwest region – an area facing significant challenges related to employment and economic development. The centre aims to raise regional competitiveness by serving as a hub for innovation and partnerships among vocational schools, universities, businesses, and local authorities.

The second CoVE was officially opened in mid-April 2025 in the city of Svoge, situated near the capital Sofia, with the local VET school celebrating its 50th anniversary of providing vocational education in the city.

In 2025, all newly established CoVEs will also receive support from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) under the programme Education 2021–27. The support will focus on ensuring a smooth transition from school to employment and will include upskilling opportunities for teachers and trainers in close cooperation with the business sector, with emphasis on digitalisation and green technologies.