European Erasmus+ Week at Technical University of Sofia

Erasmus+ is a European programme that promotes mobility, knowledge sharing, and cooperation between universities. Students, faculty members, and representatives of European institutions discussed at Technical University of Sofia the significance of the programme, as well as the opportunities it provides to young people and the academic community.

Among the participants were the Head of the European Commission Representation in Bulgaria – Assoc. Prof. Yordanka Chobanova, the Rector of Technical University of Sofia – Prof. Dr. Georgi Venkov, the Vice-Rector for International Affairs and Integration – Prof. Dr. Eng. Lidia Galabova, and the Coordinator of the Erasmus+ programme at the University – Prof. Tasho Tashev.

Gaining new knowledge, meeting with different people and cultures, creating friendships, and finding opportunities that extend beyond one’s university and country – this is how participants described Erasmus+. In the words of the rector of Technical University of Sofia, Prof. Georgi Venkov “an exceptional programme that connects universities in Europe and around the world”.

“The most recognizable EU programme – one associated exclusively with positive emotions – that gives young people the opportunity to experience Europe in all its might” – this is how Yordanka Chobanova, the Head of the European Commission Representation in Bulgaria, describes the Erasmus+ programme.

“You, the students of Technical University of Sofia, are the vanguard of a new Europe as you are building the future. Europe needs your talent and courage. ” With these words, Yordanka Chobanova addressed the young people, urging them to be proactive and to take advantage of the opportunities of Erasmus+. She emphasized that international experience is a significant asset when looking for a job. Employers value skills acquired during studies or internships abroad, and participation in the program may even lead to a direct job offer. 

According to an evaluation of the programme from last year, published by the European Commission, over 70% of Erasmus+ participants state that their time abroad improved their future job prospects. Furthermore, 88% believe that employers value the skills they have acquired through this experience. A study in Spain indicates that graduates with international educational mobility experience earn 10-12% higher salaries in the medium-term.

“A priority in the implementation of the programme is to increase student mobility among the nine partner universities within the European University of Technology (EUt+) Alliance. As part of this Alliance, to which Technical University of Sofia also belongs, we are working to create a unified European degree. The first place has already been taken: students who complete part of their studies at one of the Alliance’s partner universities receive a certificate to their diploma, signed by the rectors of all nine universities.” This announced the Vice-Rector for International Affairs and Integration, Prof. Lidia Galabova.

Currently, 80 students from EUt+ are studying at Technical University of Sofia under the Erasmus+ programme. During the past academic year, the University welcomed 200 international students from the Alliance.

Students and faculty members, who participated in Erasmus+ initiatives during the 2025/2026 academic year at universities in Colombia, Denmark, Greece, Spain, the Czech Republic, and Romania, shared their experiences and impressions regarding the academic exchange and the opportunities it presents.

During the week dedicated to Erasmus+, an information stand is set up in the lobby of Building 2 at Technical University of Sofia. There, students can obtain detailed information about all the opportunities the programme has to offer. The information campaign among students across the various faculties continues throughout the year.