BTA: Workshop in Taraclia Brings Together Teachers and Experts on Bulgarian History and Culture

A national workshop for teachers of Bulgarian history and culture was held in Taraclia at the Olympii Panov Theoretical Lyceum on January 30. The workshop gathered teachers, school administrators, representatives of the Ministry of Education and Research of Moldova, local authorities, and officials from the Bulgarian Embassy to discuss current issues related to teaching, exchanging best practices, and preserving the national identity of the Bulgarian community in Moldova.

Before the official opening, Lilia Sarsaman, head of the Taraclia District Department of Education, spoke to BTA about the workshop activities, goals, and objectives.

The workshop is being held for the second year in this format, with the support of the Bulgarian Ministry of Education and Science under Bulgaria’s national programme for native language and culture abroad. According to Sarsaman, the project makes it possible to organize this important educational event. This year, the target group includes teachers of Bulgarian history and culture, as well as members of the academic community working on key issues related to preserving national identity.

“The workshop is not only an opportunity for knowledge exchange but also a confirmation that Bulgarian history, language, culture, and traditions remain a living value for the Bulgarian community in Moldova. Preserving national identity is a daily responsibility and a deeply personal conviction,” Sarsaman said.

She added that traditions are preserved where they are actively practiced and passed on to young people. In this context, the subject plays an important role in strengthening national identity and transmitting family, folk, and ethnic values to the next generation.

During the workshop, three open lessons will be presented for grades 4, 7, and 10, demonstrating new methods and pedagogical approaches. A master class for children is also planned. Workshop guests will review results from surveys conducted among teachers and students on teaching the subject, followed by a panel discussion addressing key challenges in teaching Bulgarian history and culture.

Participants include teachers, school managers, representatives from education departments, ministries, local authorities, and the Bulgarian diplomatic mission. According to Sarsaman, this dialogue provides important feedback to inform administrative decisions aimed at improving the quality of teaching, enhancing the curriculum, and strengthening the methodological base.

Among the honorary guests was Ivan Duminica, Head of the Interethnic Relations Service at the Ministry of Education and Research of Moldova and Doctor of Historical Sciences. Sarsaman noted that his participation draws attention to the topic and demonstrates the central authorities’ commitment to the issues of national minorities and the study of Bulgarian history and culture.

Earlier, Sarsaman told BTA that Bulgarian is taught in 10 schools and 10 kindergartens in the Taraclia District. History and culture of the Bulgarian people is included as a subject in schools, and the total number of students studying Bulgarian language is nearly 3,000, around 80% of all students in the district.