Our University Participated in the Festival of Labour and Production Cooperatives and Social Enterprises

The UNWE took part in the traditional Festival of Labour and Production Cooperatives and Social Enterprises organized by the National Union of Labour and Production Cooperatives with the support of the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy in the framework of the Social Economics Action Plan for 2026-2027.

Prof. Dr. Tsvetana Stoyanova, Vice Rector for Institutional and Business Cooperation and Student Policies /in the picture below/, welcomed the participants on behalf of the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov.

In the Greeting Letter by the Rector to the organizers and participants of the Festival is pointed out: “This forum is a significant event that presents an opportunity to promote the cooperative model and social enterprise as sustainable mechanisms for the economic development, social inclusion and the creation of societal value. The Festival is a shining example of the endeavor to combine the economic efficiency with the social responsibility - values which are more relevant than ever. I am confident that these initiatives will encourage the exchange of good practices, create new partnerships and discover opportunities for developing enterprises that put people, society and sustainable development at the center of their activity”.

Guest of the Festival was Nadia Klisurska, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Policy, who outlined that such events are an important tool for promoting the public support for enterprises that combine the economic success with the social mission. She highlighted the significance of the Product of Social Enterprise brand which assists the social and professional integration of workers in the social economy. Each product carries its own personal story, idea and opportunity for development.  Each purchase from a social enterprise contributes to the creation of a better and more inclusive environment where anyone can succeed”.

Participants in this year’s edition included social enterprises and labour production cooperatives from across  the country. They presented various products and services - from souvenirs, works of art and herbal products to social activities and initiatives aimed at supporting the people with disabilities, young people and other vulnerable groups.