Burgas Free University

Burgas Free University (BFU) participates in CLaDA-BG through a team from its Center for Informatics and Technical Sciences (CITS). The Center provides education in information technology, computer science, robotics, energy, and renewable energy sources (RES). Structurally, it is organized into two academic councils: “Informatics and Computer Science” and “Technical Sciences.” The research groups within CITS work on projects in the following areas: modern software technologies, artificial intelligence, robotic systems, energy efficiency, hydrogen energy, and unconventional RES. The Center publishes an electronic journal titled “Computer Science and Communications.”

In Bulgaria’s higher-education ranking system, the Center for Informatics and Technical Sciences holds a leading position among all institutions offering education in computer and communication technologies. It ranks highly for teaching quality, practical applicability of its programs, the quality of its facilities, the level of its information-and-library and administrative services, the assessment of mobility opportunities, support for participation in internships, and more. The Center is second in the country in terms of funds allocated per student for scholarships and financial aid, as well as support for students’ career development.

At the Center for Informatics and Technical Sciences, education is structured according to global standards and reflects current technological trends. To support student learning, a modern laboratory complex has been equipped with 11 engineering-technical laboratories and 10 computer rooms equipped with specialized software and high-speed Internet access.

The Center for Informatics and Technical Sciences maintains active collaboration with organizations and institutions operating in the fields of computer technologies, energy, and RES such as Telerik, Musalasoft, Smart Systems, photovoltaic, hydroelectric, and wind power plants, National Electric Company, State Agency for National Security, the Institute of Forensic Science and Criminology, and others. These partnerships host internships, practical training, seminars, and observational opportunities. Students’ hands-on training and professional development are also supported by the Student Career and Development Center at BFU.

As a CLaDA-BG partner, BFU (through the Center for Informatics and Technical Sciences) contributes its personnel and developments to support the infrastructural and applied aspects of current and future CLaDA-BG activities. The team from BFU coordinated by the team of IMI-BAS participates in the development of the Digital Library of the Regional Library “Peyo Yavorov” (Burgas).