bulgarian Language Training Opens doors for Ukrainian Children in Stara Zagora
In a heartwarming initiative aimed at fostering social integration, Ukrainian children in Stara Zagora are set too embark on a journey of learning the Bulgarian language. Starting January 18,2025,the program,a collaboration between UNICEF bulgaria and the Municipality of Stara Zagora,will provide displaced children with the tools to thrive in their new surroundings.
The project, hosted at the International Youth Center in Stara Zagora, goes beyond language training. It offers a holistic approach to integration, including art studios, cultural events, museum visits, and excursions to iconic tourist sites. These activities are designed to help children not only learn Bulgarian but also connect with the local community.
“Education in Bulgarian is an vital step towards the successful integration of Ukrainian children and their families into our community,” said Nadezhda Chakarova,Deputy Mayor of Stara Zagora Municipality. “We are creating a supportive and favorable environment in which thay will not only master the language but also feel part of our society.”
The program is led by qualified specialists in bulgarian philology and preschool pedagogy,ensuring high-quality instruction. Additionally, psychological support is available for children and their families, provided individually or in groups, alongside counseling for municipal social services.
By Febuary 2025, a second group of children will begin their Bulgarian language studies, further expanding the initiative’s reach. The project,set to conclude on June 30,2025,builds on the successful partnership between UNICEF and Stara Zagora in supporting vulnerable groups.
| Key Highlights of the Project |
|————————————|
| Start Date | January 18, 2025 |
| Location | international Youth center, Stara Zagora |
| Activities | Language classes, art studios, cultural events, museum visits |
| Support Services | Psychological counseling, social worker guidance |
| Second Group Start | February 2025 |
| Project End Date | June 30, 2025 |
This initiative underscores the importance of education and emotional support in helping displaced children adapt to their new surroundings. By fostering cultural understanding and social cohesion, Stara zagora is setting an example for communities worldwide.
For more information on similar initiatives, visit Bulgaria’s multi-sector needs assessment.
Fostering Integration: A Conversation on Bulgarian Language Training for ukrainian Children in Stara zagora
Table of Contents
In this exclusive interview, Senior Editor Maria Petrova of world-today-news.com sits down with Dr. Elena Ivanova, a leading expert in refugee integration and education, to discuss the groundbreaking Bulgarian language training program for Ukrainian children in Stara zagora. The initiative, a collaboration between UNICEF bulgaria and the Municipality of Stara Zagora, aims to foster social cohesion and integration through education and cultural activities.
Interview with Dr. Elena Ivanova
Maria Petrova: Dr. Ivanova, thank you for joining us today. This program in Stara Zagora has been described as a “heartwarming initiative.” Can you tell us more about its goals and why it’s so critically important?
Dr. Elena Ivanova: Thank you,Maria. The program is indeed a remarkable effort to support Ukrainian children and their families who have been displaced by the ongoing crisis. its primary goal is to facilitate their integration into Bulgarian society by providing language training and cultural activities. language is a key barrier for refugees, and by helping children learn Bulgarian, we’re opening doors for them to communicate, make friends, and succeed in school. Beyond language, the program also includes art studios, museum visits, and excursions, which help children connect with their new habitat and feel a sense of belonging.
Maria Petrova: That’s wonderful. The program seems to take a holistic approach. How do these additional activities contribute to the children’s integration?
Dr. Elena Ivanova: absolutely, Maria. Integration isn’t just about language—it’s about understanding and embracing the culture of the host community. Activities like art studios and museum visits allow children to explore Bulgarian history and traditions in an engaging way. These experiences help them build bridges with local peers and foster mutual understanding. For example, when children visit iconic tourist sites, they’re not just learning about Bulgaria; they’re also creating shared memories with their classmates, which strengthens social bonds.
Maria petrova: The program also offers psychological support. Why is this aspect so significant?
Dr.Elena Ivanova: Displacement is incredibly traumatic, especially for children. Many of these young refugees have experienced loss, uncertainty, and upheaval. Psychological support is crucial to help them process these emotions and adapt to their new lives. The program provides counseling for both children and their families, either individually or in groups. This ensures that they have a safe space to express their feelings and receive guidance. It’s a vital component of the program’s success.
Maria Petrova: The initiative is a collaboration between UNICEF Bulgaria and the Municipality of Stara Zagora. How does this partnership enhance the program’s impact?
Dr. Elena Ivanova: partnerships like this are essential for creating lasting and effective integration programs. UNICEF brings global expertise and resources, while the Municipality of Stara Zagora provides local knowledge and infrastructure. Together, they’ve been able to design a program that addresses the specific needs of Ukrainian refugees in the region. This collaboration also ensures that the program is well-coordinated and reaches as many children as possible.
Maria Petrova: The program is set to conclude on June 30, 2025. what do you hope its long-term impact will be?
Dr.Elena Ivanova: My hope is that this program will serve as a model for other communities hosting refugees. It demonstrates the importance of combining education, cultural activities, and psychological support to create a welcoming environment for displaced families. In the long term, I believe the children who participate will not only master the Bulgarian language but also develop a deep connection to their new home. This will contribute to a more inclusive and cohesive society.
Maria Petrova: Thank you, Dr.Ivanova, for sharing your insights. This program is truly inspiring, and I’m sure our readers will appreciate learning more about it.
Dr.Elena Ivanova: Thank you, Maria. It’s been a pleasure to discuss this important initiative.
key highlights of the Project
| Start Date | January 18, 2025 |
|---|---|
| Location | International Youth Center, Stara Zagora |
| Activities | Language classes, art studios, cultural events, museum visits |
| Support Services | Psychological counseling, social worker guidance |
| Second Group Start | February 2025 |
| Project End Date | June 30, 2025 |
For more facts on similar initiatives, visit Bulgaria’s multi-sector needs assessment.
