Nuclear Security Support Center News RSS Feed

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov Participated in an International Study Visit to the USA under the American Government’s Programme FIRST

UNWE — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 12:25:00 GMT

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Director of the Center for Nuclear Security Support and the Institute for Enhancing Research Capacity in the Field of the Nuclear Industry and Nuclear Security at UNWE, as well as lecturer at the UNWE National and Regional Security Department, took part in the international study visit Foundational Infrastructure for Responsible Use of Small Modular Reactor Technology (FIRST) Workforce Development Technical Site Visits held in March 2026 in the USA.

As part of the Programme, the Bulgarian delegation, comprising representatives from academic institutions, government agencies and industry, visited leading universities, research centers, and companies in the field of nuclear energy in the states of Texas, Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C.

The study visit began with an intensive programme at Texas A&M University where the participants were introduced to the nuclear engineering education programmes, laboratories and research centers, including initiatives related to Small Modular Reactors /SMRs/.

The delegation held meetings at the Center for Energy Development in Bay City, Texas, as well as with representatives of local institutions and business organizations involved in the development and public acceptance of nuclear energy.

A highlight of the Programme was the visit to Westinghouse Electric Company in Pennsylvania, where the participants were introduced to the modern technologies, including the AP1000 and AP300 reactors, as well as with training programmes for engineering and technical personnel. During the visit, Prof. Spasov also presented the UNWE activities in the field of nuclear security.

In Washington, D.C., meetings were held with key institutions such as the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, as well as the Nuclear Energy Institute and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers /ASME/, where policies, standards, and best practices in nuclear energy and the training of specialists were discussed.

The participation of UNWE in this international initiative contributes to establishing the university as an active partner in global efforts to develop education and expert capacity in the field of nuclear security and new nuclear technologies.

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov Held a Working Meeting with the Vietnamese Ambassador to Strengthen the Cooperation in the Fields of the Nuclear Industry and Nuclear Security

UNWE — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 09:15:00 GMT

The Director of the Institute for Enhancing the Research Capacity in the Field of the Nuclear Industry and Nuclear Security at UNWE Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Bulgaria H.E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet held a working meeting dedicated to the bilateral cooperation development.

The meeting was organized at the invitation of H.E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet and opportunities for cooperation in the fields of the nuclear industry, nuclear security and human resource development in the nuclear energy were discussed. The prospects for the exchange of experts and the organization of specialized training courses for Vietnamese specialists at UNWE, in its capacity as a partner center of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), were also examined.

The parties also discussed the possibility of preparation and participation in joint projects under various European programmes as well as the participation of Vietnamese students in the Master’s programme in Economics of Defense and Security with specialization in Nuclear Security at the UNWE.

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov Organized a Visit for Students from the University’s Master’s Programme in Nuclear Security to the Nuclear Regulatory Agency

UNWE — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 15:55:00 GMT

Students from the Master’s programme in Economics of Defense and Security with specialization Nuclear Security at the UNWE visited the Bulgarian Nuclear Regulatory Agency /BNRA/. The visit was organized by the Head of the Master`s programme Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Director of the Center for Nuclear Security Support, as part of the coursework on the security of nuclear and other radioactive materials during transport.

The guests were welcomed by Mr. Atanas Dobrev, Director of the International Cooperation Directorate at the Bulgarian Nuclear Regulatory Agency /BNRA/, who greeted the students and university lecturers and briefly outlined the agency’s activities. In his remarks, he highlighted UNWE’s potential in the field of nuclear security and praised the university for its international recognition through its designation as a partner center of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). With this status, the UNWE ranks among the few academic institutions in the world that have received such recognition in fact, the UNWE is the fourth such center in Europe and the twelfth globally.

The Head of the Master’s programme Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov expressed thankfulness to Atanas Dobrev and the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Agency Tsanko Bachiysky, for their hospitality. He outlined the active cooperation between the UNWE and the Nuclear Regulatory Agency, including the university’s participation in the implementation of the Three-Year Action Plan under the National Strategy for Human Resources Development in the Nuclear Sector for the period 2026–2028. Prof. Spasov emphasized that the Master’s programme continues to develop and prepare highly qualified specialists, with many of its graduates subsequently finding professional fulfillment in institutions and organizations working in the field of nuclear security in their respective countries, while some of them also begin careers at the International Atomic Energy Agency.

During the visit Dr. Ivaylo Ivanov, who teaches the course Methods and Instruments for Measuring Nuclear and Other Radioactive Materials in the Master’s programme in Nuclear Security, held a presentation in which he informed the students about the main functions, powers and activities of the Nuclear Regulatory Agency. Then Lyudmila Simeonova, Head of the Emergency Planning and Preparedness Division within the Nuclear Safety Directorate General at the BNRA, together with experts from the Division explained to the students the Agency’s specialized operational and technical sector, including the surveillance, information and computer systems used to control and monitor nuclear safety and security.

The visit gave the students the opportunity to get a closer look at the practical aspects of nuclear regulation and to acquire a clearer understanding of the role of the national regulatory authority in the system for ensuring nuclear safety and security.

UNWE and Sofia University Will Partner in the Field of the Nuclear Industry and Security

UNWE — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 08:45:00 GMT

The Institute for Enhancing Research Capacity in the Field of the Nuclear Industry and Nuclear Security /IERCFNINS/ at the UNWE and the Faculty of Geology and Geography at St. Climent Ohridsky University of Sofia signed a Memorandum of Cooperation.

The agreement was signed by Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Director of IERCFNINS and the Center for Nuclear Security Support, and Prof. D.Sc. Climent Naydenov, Dean of the Faculty of Geology and Geography at St. Climent Ohridsky University of Sofia, during an official meeting held at UNWE in the presence of representatives from both academic communities.

On behalf of UNWE Institute the signing was attended by Chief Assist. Dr. Atanas Dimitrov, Deputy Director for Scientific Research of IERCFNINS, and Doctoral student Georgy Tasev, and the Faculty of Geology and Geography at St. Climent Ohridsky University of Sofia was represented by Chief Assist. Dr. Dimitar Atanasov.

Georgy Tasev, Chief Assist. Dr. Atanas Dimitrov, Prof. Svetoslav Spasov, Prof. Climent Naydenov, and Chief Assist. Dimitar Atanasov /from the left to the right/

The Memorandum establishes a framework for a strategic partnership aimed at developing and improving the quality of education, research and innovation in the fields of nuclear energy and nuclear security, as well as for preparing and implementing joint projects under the national and European programmes. It provides for cooperation in a number of strategic areas, including:

Scientific research and capacity building in areas such as clean energy, nuclear engineering and core technologies;
Application of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity in the energy sector;
Geological surveys related to the disposal of spent nuclear fuel;
Geospatial analyses, risk assessment and impact assessment on regional sustainability;
Development of models for spatial planning and assessment of environmental and regional impacts;
Research and application of Small Modular reactors /SMRs/;
Exchange of university lecturers, researchers, and students;
Organization of joint workshops, seminars and conferences;
Technology transfer and use of innovative educational tools, including virtual laboratories, simulation software and digital platforms.

The signing of the Memorandum sets the foundation for a long-term partnership in strategically important areas related to the development of the nuclear industry, sustainable energy and the enhancement of expertise in the field of nuclear security.

Lecturers and Students from the Master’s Programme in Nuclear Security Visited Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant

UNWE — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 09:25:00 GMT

University lecturers, Bulgarian and international students from the Master’s programme in Nuclear Security visited Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant as part of a special course led by Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE, and Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Head of the Master’s Programme and Director of the Center for Nuclear Security Support. The visit was attended by the Head of the National and Regional Security Department Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov; Alex Behar, lecturer in Cyber Defense and Crisis Management at UNWE, and Georgy Balinov - one of the most successful Bulgarians on Wall Street.

Georgy Balinov, Alex Behar, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov,, Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, and the students from the Master`s programme

Alexander Petrov, Head of the Analysis and Protection Sector at Kozloduy NPP, welcomed the guests and outlined: “It is an honour for us to partner with the UNWE, and I am delighted to have you here”. He introduced to the Master’s degree students the main technical and operational characteristics of the 1 000-megawatt power units, as well as the plant’s safety and physical protection systems.

The group also visited the Training Center — a simulator and an authentic copy of the protective shield of Reactor No. 6, where they had the opportunity to observe a real-time simulation of process control, learn about the emergency response protocols, and see up close the physical protection systems of the containment area. The guests also attended a simulation of an emergency shutdown.

The visit is a result of the established relationship between the two institutions, following the memorandum of strategic partnership signed between the UNWE and Kozloduy NPP EAD in 2024 which lays the foundation for active cooperation in training personnel in nuclear security, organizing student internships, and implementing joint research projects in the energy sector.

The Recognition of UNWE As the IAEA Partner Center Was Marked with Special Plate Certifying the New Status

UNWE — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 17:15:00 GMT

The UNWE is recognized as a Partner Center of the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/ for cooperation in the field of nuclear security.

The Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and the Chairman of the Bulgarian Nuclear Regulatory Agency /NRA/ Tsanko Bachiysky presented the IAEA plate certifying the status of the UNWE.

The UNWE has been designated as a IAEA Partner Center of the IAEA for the next four years by an agreement signed between the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and Karine Herviou, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. Its Head is Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Director of the Center for Nuclear Security Support (PIAC), Director of the Institute for Enhancing Research Capacity in the Field of Nuclear Industry and Nuclear Security and Lecturer at the Department of National and Regional Security.

With this recognition the UNWE ranks among the few academic institutions in the world with such a status becoming the 4th center in Europe and the 12th in the world.

The Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Agency Tsanko Bachiysy /from the right to the left/

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Asya Davidova, Director of the Security Policy Directorate, Ministry of Foreign Affairs /MFA/, Tsanko Bachiysky, Atanas Dobrev from the NRA and Momchil Ninov from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs /from the right to the left/

"The UNWE undertakes one of its most responsible missions – to be a bridge between the science, the education and international security. The designation of the UNWE as the IAEA Partner Center for Cooperation in the Field of Nuclear Security, as the 4th such center in Europe, is a recognition of our long-term efforts to prepare experts with vision, knowledge and high public responsibility", said the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and outlined: "This confirms the role of the University as a place for sustainable education, expertise and international partnership in one of the most sensitive and strategic areas of the modern world".

"The designation of the UNWE as the IAEA Partner Centre for Cooperation in the Field of Nuclear Security is an important step for the establishment of Bulgaria as a reliable and responsible partner in the international nuclear security system. The University has accumulated experience, proven academic capacity and active international engagement, which are key to the effective cooperation between the regulatory institutions, the academic community and international organizations in nuclear risk management", said the Chairman of the Nuclear Regulatory Agency Tsanko Bachiysky.

According to the agreement, the UNWE will continue to train students in the International Master's Programme in Nuclear Security, as well as to carry out activities as a Nuclear Security Support Centre. The new center will host international meetings, training courses and seminars on topics such as small modular reactors, nuclear forensics, radiological crime scene management, as well as other aspects of nuclear security.

The UNWE has ten years of experience in this field. Since 2015, the University has trained more than 80 students from 15 countries in close cooperation with the IAEA, and last year marked the 10th Anniversary of its International Master's Programme in Nuclear Security.

As a center of the IAEA for cooperation, the UNWE plans to host annual meetings of the International Network for Training and Support in the Field of Nuclear Security and the International Network for Education in the Field of Nuclear Security, as well as an International Seminar for Human Resources Development in the Planning of Nuclear Security Programmes.

In 2025, two new IAEA nuclear security cooperation centers were designated, in Canada and France, and two extension agreements were signed with centers in China and Morocco. The total number of the active IAEA nuclear security cooperation centers is currently 15.

Before the event, the Rector held a meeting with the official guests.

UNWE Is Designated as an IAEA Collaborating Centre for Nuclear Security

UNWE — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 16:10:00 GMT

The UNWE is designated as an IAEA collaborating center for capacity building in the field of nuclear security under an agreement signed between the Rector of our university Prof. Dr, Dimitar Dimitrov and Karine Herviou, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Safety and Security. Prof. Svetoslav Spasov, Director of the UNWE Nuclear Security Support Center, represented the UNWE at the meeting in Vienna.

"The designation of the UNWE as an IAEA center is based on long-standing cooperation and makes it our strategic partner", said Karine Herviou. "We look forward to implementing the agreement, which involves expertise, resources, and support to enhance the educational and training opportunities in the field of nuclear security worldwide."

Under the four-year agreement the UNWE will continue to educate students in the International Master's Degree Programme in Nuclear Security and to carry out activities as a Nuclear Security Support Center. In addition, the new collaborating center will host international meetings, training courses, and seminars on topics related to the small modular reactors, nuclear forensics, radiological crime scene management, and other nuclear security-related topics.

"This partnership will strengthen Bulgaria's role in supporting the international nuclear security efforts and contribute to the development of highly qualified specialists in the region", said Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE. "As a center for collaboration the UNWE will continue to develop education, applied research and institutional cooperation in line with the global standards", added the Rector.

Prof. Spasov said that the UNWE will be the fourth IAEA collaborating center in Europe and the twelfth one in the world for capacity building in the field of nuclear security.

Last year the UNWE celebrated the 10th Anniversary of its International Master's Degree Programme in Nuclear Security, which is an important milestone confirming the University's commitment to education in this critically important field. Since 2015 the UNWE has gained a substantial expertise, having trained more than 80 students from 15 countries in close collaboration with the IAEA.

As an IAEA collaborating center the UNWE plans to host annual meetings of the International Network for Training and Support in Nuclear Security and the International Network for Education in Nuclear Security, as well as an international seminar on human resources development in planning the nuclear security programmes.

The IAEA collaborating centers in the field of nuclear security are institutions, departments, or laboratories that support the Agency's work by providing technical expertise and theoretical and practical training, and by conducting specific research and development activities. In cooperation with the IAEA, these centers support efforts to build capacity in the field of nuclear security at national, regional and international levels.

In 2025 two new IAEA centers for collaboration in the field of nuclear security were designated in Canada and France, and two agreements were signed to extend the term of cooperation with centers in China and Morocco. The total number of the active IAEA centers for collaboration in the field of nuclear security currently is 15.

UNWE Celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the Only One in the World International Master's Programme in Nuclear Security with a Scientific Forum and Jubilee Exhibition

UNWE — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 14:05:00 GMT

The University of National and World Economy celebrated 10 years since the establishment of the only one in the world International Master's Programme in Nuclear Security with a scientific forum, a jubilee exhibition and a cocktail party.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov, Head of the National and Regional Security Department, Chief Assist. Dr. Ekaterina Bogomilova, former Head of the Master's Programme, the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov - the first Head of the Master's Programme, Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Head of the Master's Programme and Director of the UNWE Nuclear Security Support Center

The events are implemented in a long-term partnership with the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/. The celebration is under the patronage of the Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov and the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov. The organizers are Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov – Head of the Master`s Programme and Director of the UNWE Nuclear Security Support Center, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov, Head of the National and Regional Security Department. Sponsors of the events are the National Electric Company, Central Energy Repair Base /CERB/, ELIA Ltd., Electricity System Operator, Cantarelli Ltd.

Before the start of the scientific forum the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and the Deputy Minister of Energy Georgy Samandov opened the jubilee exhibition presenting key moments, projects, and academic practices from the history and development of the Master`s Programme in the central lobby of the University.

The Deputy Executive Director of the National Electric Company Lyubomir Miladinov, Prof. Dr. Tsvetan Tsvetkov, Director of the UNWE Center for Strategic Studies in Defense and Security, the Head of the National and Regional Security Department Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov, the Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, the Deputy Minister Georgy Samandov, the Director of the UNWE Nuclear Security Support Center Prof. Svetoslav Spasov and the Chairman of the Commission for Control of the Special Intelligence Means Plamen Kolev

The Scientific Forum on the Nuclear Security Education in the Context of Global Challenges was held in the Large Conference Hall.

The Director of the UNWE Nuclear Security Support Center Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, who was also the moderator of the forum, welcomed the guests and expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the Ministry of Energy, the Nuclear Regulatory Agency, the Bulgarian Energy Holding, the State Agency for National Security, the Ministry of Education and Science, the ambassadors of countries from Asia, Africa, and the Arab world, as well as by a number of Bulgarian and international institutions that have contributed to the implementation of the Master's Programme over the years. He emphasized the enormous importance of their assistance in attracting students from all over the world and in developing the Programme over the past 10 years.

The Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, who is also the first Head of the International Master's Programme in Nuclear Security, launched in 2015, welcomed the guests, pointing out that the Programme is not only the result of the efforts of UNWE and the IAEA, but also of all the institutions that responded to the process of its establishment and development in order to create a unique Master's Programme in Nuclear Security. He told how the idea for the creation of the Master's Programme was born in 2013, the obstacles and challenges that had been overcome to get to the signing of an agreement between the UNWE and the IAEA in 2014, the admission of the first students of the Programme, and its launch on 10 November 2015.

“This Master's Programme is not only unique, but also the only one of its kind in the world, and the interest in it has been enormous over the years. It attracts not only Bulgarian and EU students, but also students from Asia, Africa and the Arab world and a large number of them subsequently find professional realization in the nuclear sector in their home countries and even in their governments, as well as in the IAEA, which is already an evidence of the Programme's success and the quality of education in it. For me, it is very important to have continuity in the management of the Programme. What I started as the first Head of the Programme was successfully continued by Chief Assist. Dr. Ekaterina Bogomilova, and for the past year the Program has been headed by Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov. In this way new opportunities for upgrading and developing the Master's Programme are constantly sought", emphasized Prof. Dimitrov.

The Deputy Minister of Energy Georgy Samandov, graduate of UNWE, greeted the audience on the occasion of the Anniversary and wished another 10 000 years of success to the Master's Programme. He emphasized that “the main characteristic of the nuclear energy is the security, which requires well prepared professionals in the field of nuclear security” and pointed out some projects on which the Ministry of Energy has been working in recent years with the aim of developing the sector in line with the modern requirements and trends. He delivered a Greeting Address on behalf of the Minister of Energy Zhecho Stankov, expressing confidence that the UNWE is the right place for preparation of highly qualified specialists in the field of nuclear security.

The Head of the National and Regional Security Department Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov emphasized that “10 years is not a short time for the development of a curriculum, but after all the obstacles and challenges that have been overcome, we must consider how to make this program sustainable. Therefore, perhaps the biggest challenge is to pass on the knowledge and everything that has been done so far and to build on what has been achieved”. He expressed thankfulness to all institutions for their support over the years.

Greetings on the occasion of the Anniversary of the Master's Programme addressed also Valentin Velev, expert at the National Nuclear Regulatory Agency, who read a Greeting Address on behalf of the Chairman of the Agency Tsanko Bachiysky.

On behalf of the Chairman of the State Agency for National Security Denyo Denev a Greeting Letter was read by Petio Petkov.

The Deputy Executive Director of Bulgaria's electricity transmission operator Anton Adamov awarded to the Rector a Greeting Letter and a glass statuette on behalf of the Director of Electricity System Operator Kiril Georgiev /in the picture below/.

Greeting letters on the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of the Master's Programme were received from the Executive Director of Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant Ivan Andreev, the Executive Director of Bulgarian Energy Holding Valentin Nikolov, the Executive Director of the National Electric Company Georgy Dobrev, the Dean of the Finance and Accounting Faculty Prof. Rumen Brusarsky, the Head of the Economics Department Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ivaylo Beev, etc. A video message was also received from the Head of the IAEA Nuclear Security Department.

The Scientific Forum was funded under the project No. NID NF-33/2025/A. In the scientific discussion took part Elena Buglova, Director of the IAEA Nuclear Security Department, Prof. Alexandra Ioannidou from Greece, Dr. Marina Dabetic from Serbia - long-standing international partners of the Programme, as well as Mr. Leonardo Andrade, Director for Europe at QS – Quacquarelli Symonds, the leading global organization in the field of university rankings, who will present the importance of the Master`s Programme in Nuclear Security for the international visibility and academic reputation of UNWE. During the forum the achievements of the Programme, good practices and prospects for the future development of education and scientific research in the field of nuclear security were presented.

The Forum was attended by representatives of embassies, as well as of Bulgarian and international institutions in the field of nuclear security and energy, including Arsen Abdrakhmanov, Secretary of the Embassy of Kazakhstan, Mr. Truong Ngoc Nam, First Secretary of the Embassy of Vietnam, Mr. Tamas Tovari, Advisor to the Embassy of Hungary, Mr. Tigran Harutyunyan, Secretary of the Embassy of Armenia, Lyubomir Miladinov, Deputy Executive Director of the National Electric Company, Kalin Stanukov, Deputy Executive Director of the Bulgarian Energy Holding, Dimitar Stoyanov from Kozloduy Nuclear Competence Center, Dr. Eng. Dimitar Beleliev, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Central Energy Repair Base /CERB/, Peter Avramov, Executive Director of Phoenix Re, Ivaylo Ovcharov, Executive Director of ELIA EAD, etc.

PHOTOGALLERY

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov Took Part in the QS Eurasia Higher Education Forum 2025 in Uzbekistan

UNWE — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 18:45:00 GMT

At the end of November Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, lecturer at the National and Regional Security Department, took part in the first edition of the QS Eurasia Higher Education Forum 2025 held at Central Asian University, Tashkent, Republic of Uzbekistan.

The Forum organized by QS Quacquarelli Symonds and supported by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of Uzbekistan brought together Ministers, Rectors, university leaders and experts from the Eurasian region. The main topics were related to internationalization, institutional transformation, the quality of higher education and global competitiveness.

During the event Prof. Spasov presented the international activities of UNWE and highlighted the Master's Degree Programme in Nuclear Security developed with the assistance of the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/. The Programme generated significant interest as the only one of its kind in the world and was regarded as a successful model for developing the nuclear educational capacity.

Prof. Spasov's participation in the Forum contributes to the expansion of international contacts, the establishment of UNWE's expertise in the field of nuclear security and the development of future partnerships in the Eurasian region.

Participation of the Director of the Nuclear Security Support Center Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov in the Annual Meeting of the International Nuclear Security Education Network in Mito, Japan

UNWE — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 17:55:00 GMT

At the beginning of November the Annual Meeting of the International Nuclear Security Education Network /INSEN/ was held. Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, lecturer in the National and Regional Security Department, took part in the meeting which was organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/ in Mito, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan.

The event brought together representatives from leading universities, nuclear regulators and international organizations from over 30 countries who discussed the current challenges, the necessity of education and the development of academic programmes in the field of nuclear security.

Prof. Spasov participated as a panelist in Panel Session #1: Engaging Stakeholders in Nuclear Security, where he presented the best practices of UNWE and the experience in developing the Master's Degree Programme in Nuclear Security implemented with the support of the IAEA. In his presentation he emphasized the role of education, academic partnerships and the preparation of young specialists in the context of global efforts to strengthen the nuclear security.

Prof. Svetoslav Spasov /on the left/

During the Forum Prof. Spasov held working meetings with representatives of the IAEA and partner universities regarding the future joint initiatives, the exchange of educational resources and the participation of UNWE in INSEN projects.

The participation in the meeting in Mito contributes to establishing the UNWE as an active member of the international community in the field of nuclear security and opens up new opportunities for academic collaboration.

The Nuclear Security Support Center Organized a National Stakeholder Meeting on the US State Department's Phoenix Project

UNWE — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 07:45:18 GMT

The Center for Nuclear Security Support at UNWE is a partner in the US State Department's Phoenix project for small modular nuclear reactors. The project coordinator is Assoc. Prof. Svetoslav Spasov, Director of the Center.

The first event under the project, "Engaging Stakeholders on the Role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Decarbonization Strategies," was held on December 4 and 5, 2024, at the Hyatt Regency Sofia Hotel.

The event was officially opened by the Rector of UNWE, Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, and the Deputy Minister of Energy, Georgi Samandov, who emphasized the importance of the academic community for the development of innovation and sustainable technologies in nuclear energy. Valentin Nikolov, Executive Director of the Bulgarian Energy Holding (BEH), Aaron Koup, Acting Deputy Chief of Mission of the US Embassy, and Michael Wautlet, representative of the US State Department, delivered welcoming remarks.

UNWE Rector Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, Minister of Energy Georgi Samandov, and Assoc. Prof. Svetoslav Spasov (from right to left)

The program included thematic discussions and panels, including "Review of Small Modular Reactors and Opportunities for Their Adaptation," where Assoc. Prof. Svetoslav Spasov presented the importance of regulatory and technical aspects for the safety and security of SMRs. He also emphasized the need for transparency and effective stakeholder engagement.

Other important topics included Bulgaria's decarbonization strategies, industrial applications of SMRs, and the role of nuclear energy for local communities. Participants discussed business models for the implementation of SMR and the importance of training personnel in the nuclear field.

The participation of the Nuclear Security Support Center confirms the key role of UNWE as a partner in international initiatives aimed at innovation in nuclear technologies and sustainable development.

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov Participated in the QS Quacquarelli Symonds Europe Summit 2025 in Porto, Portugal

UNWE — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 07:35:00 GMT

Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov participated as a representative of UNWE in the QS Quacquarelli Symonds Europe Summit 2025 in Porto, Portugal.

During the Forum were discussed strategies for innovation, partnerships, attracting students and improving the quality of higher education in a European and international context.

Prof. Spasov met with the founder and president of QS Quacquarelli Symonds Mr. Nunzio Quacquarelli. The company is a world leader in global university rankings.

Prof. Spasov took also part in a debate on the strategies of the Ministry of Education and Science and Bulgarian universities in attracting foreign students.

The UNWE representative also held an important discussion on the future cooperation with the managers of Elsevier - Richard van Haaren, Tayrfun Basal and Margarida Vaz de Brito - the company that created the global scientific database Scopus.

At the invitation of Prof. Marisa Araújo, Prof. Spasov visited Lusíada University in Porto, where he held a working meeting with university lecturers and discussed the preparation of joint projects in the field of anti-corruption education.

The Director Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov Participated in a Meeting of the International Network of the IAEA Nuclear Security Support Centers

UNWE — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:25:00 GMT

The Director of the UNWE Nuclear Security Support Center Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov took part in the meeting of the International Network of Nuclear Security Support Centers /NSSC Network/ organized by the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/. The meeting was held from 20 to 23 January 2025 at the IAEA Headquarters in Vienna, Austria.

Assoc. Prof. Spasov was appointed as Supervisor and Editor of the NSSC Network Newsletter. This position is a recognition of the expertise and contribution of the UNWE Nuclear Security Support Center to the international efforts for strengthening the nuclear security.

The agenda of the meeting included a number of discussions and working groups covering: an overview of NSSC's information tools, NSSC's role in human resource development, guidelines for collaboration and promotion of NSSC activities. The main focus was on the development of training materials and the improvement of information exchange mechanisms between the member countries.

UNWE and Bulgarian Energy Holding EAD Signed a Cooperation Agreement as Part of the Seminar on the Energy Ensurance in the Modern Security Environment in the Republic of Bulgaria

UNWE — Thu, 21 Mar 2024 16:35:00 GMT

The National and Regional Security Department in compliance with the activities planned under the National Scientific Programme - Security and Defence /NSP S&D/ organized a thematic seminar on the Energy Ensurance in the Modern Security Environment in the Republic of Bulgaria.

During the event, a cooperation agreement was signed between the UNWE and the Bulgarian Energy Holding EAD /BEH EAD/.

The document was signed by the Rector of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and the Managing Director of BEH EAD Ivan Andreev.

Ivan Andreev, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Director of the Center for Nuclear Security Support of UNWE and lecturer at the National and Regional Security Department /in the middle from the right to the left/

Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov opened the event and emphasized that the National Scientific Programme - Security and Defence is unique, for the first time in our country there is such a programme among the universities operating in the field of defence and security. "A lot of work was done within the framework of the programme activities, events were organized and held presenting the strategic tasks and the individual work packages and the level was very high. The programme also envisages joint work with the business and this event is a step in that direction. The state-owned Bulgarian energy companies are part of the strategic objects of national security so the joint work with them within the National Scientific Programme - Security and Defence and within the scope of the work of the National and Regional Security Department will give added value to the energy security and critical infrastructure of the country", said Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov.

"This forum is of utmost importance for us because its topic is part of the overall concept of nuclear safety and energy security. We need to focus not only on the technical aspects, but also on the philosophy in this field and its future development, so that our professionals and future students are well informed and familiar with all the specifics and requirements. We need to continue to work together for the development of energy security and nuclear safety", pointed out Ivan Andreev.

Within the scope of the agreement the two parties agreed to expand the opportunities for training, scientific research, feasibility studies and project activities, promotion and implementation of scientific, technical and professional achievements. The objective of the agreement is to increase the efficiency of educational, research and development activities in the field of energy. The opportunity for opening a new Master's degree programme in energy security was also discussed during the event.

"I would like to express thankfulness to Mr. Ivan Andreev and his team for the preparation of this memorandum together with Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov. I hope that it will lay the foundation of a long-term cooperation and will be beneficial for both sides for short or long-term training or for work on a project for small modular reactors", said the moderator of the event Assoc. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, who is the Director of the Center for Nuclear Security Support of UNWE and a lecturer at the Department of National and Regional Security.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov

The Head of the National and Regional Security Department and Coordinator of the NSP S&D for UNWE Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov presented the Programme and emphasised that UNWE is a beneficiary of the Programme, which is implemented in a partnership with Prof. Tsvetan Lazarov Bulgarian Defence Institute, the University of Library Studies and Information Technology, G. С. Rakovsky Military Academy, the Centre for National Security and Defence Studies at Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, the Academy of the Ministry of Interior, N. J. Vaptsarov Naval Academy, the Vasil Levsky National Military University and G. Benkovsky Bulgarian Air Force Academy. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov added that the implementation of the Programme will lead to increased publication activity, creation of modern models of management and operation, development of active relations between the scientific organizations and state universities in the country, involvement in scientific partner networks from abroad, creation of prototypes of tools and environments for more secure virtual communication as well as to improved interaction between the research and development units and enterprises.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Noncho Dimitrov

The Rector Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov presented the International Master's Degree Programme in Nuclear Security and pointed out that the Programme, which was launched in 2015, is the only one in the world that has been established in accordance with the requirements of the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/.

Within the frameworks of the Programme the Executive Director of the Electricity System Operator /ESO/ EAD Angelin Tsachev presented the investments and development of electricity transmission infrastructure and interconnection to maximize the growing share of electricity generation from renewable energy sources as well as the challenges of managing the electricity system in a liberalized and unified electricity market. He also outlined the prospects and opportunities for the hydrogen technologies development in support of efficient use of renewable electricity generation.

Eng. Martin Georgiev, Executive Director of the National Electricity Company /NEK EAD/, Angelin Tsachev, Executive Director of ESO EAD, Alexander Michaylov, Executive Director of the National Energy Operator /NEO EAD/

Dr. Ivan Hinovsky, expert at the Project Directorate of Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant /NPP/ - New Capacities EAD, gave a presentation on the"Contribution of the NPP to the Stability of the Energy System in the Context of the Green Deal.

The Executive Director of the National Electricity Company /NEK EAD/ Eng. Martin Georgiev spoke about the role of hydropower in the energy transition.

Dr. Ivan Hinovsky /on the right/

Alexander Michaylov, Executive Director of the National Energy Operator /NEO EAD/, presented the types of technologies and the importance of electricity storage.

The event was also attended by Prof. Dr. Tsvetana Stoyanova, Vice Rector for Institutional and Business Cooperation and Student Policy at UNWE.

The seminar ended with a fruitful discussion.

Public Lecture by the First Secretary for Economic Affairs at the US Embassy in Bulgaria Liam Sullivan

UNWE — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 15:00:00 GMT

Public lecture by Mr. Liam Sullivan, First Secretary for Economic Affairs /Energy Sector/ at the US Embassy in Bulgaria took place in the Ceremonial Hall of UNWE. The topic was The Bulgarian and European Energy Transformation Process.

The event is organized by the Center for Nuclear Security Support at National and Regional Security Department with Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spassov and the Center for Energy Business and Infrastructure at Economics of Transport and Energy Department with Director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vladimir Zinoviev.

Assoc. Svetoslav Spassov, Mr. Liam Sullivan, Assoc. Vladimir Zinoviev /from the right to the left/

In his lecture to students in Bachelor`s, Master`s and Doctoral degree at the National and Regional Security Department and the Economics of Transport and Energy Department of UNWE the diplomat focused on the process of energy transformation from coal-fired generating capacity to a new generation of nuclear power, including micro, small and medium modular reactors.

According to Mr. Sullivan there are currently interesting opportunities for further development of wind, solar and hydro resources in the region's electricity system, with some support from battery storage. According to him further regional interconnection should be sought as seen in the successful Greece-Bulgaria interconnector project.

Mr. Liam Sullivan

After the public lecture Mr. Sullivan answered questions from the students regarding the transition process and its economic implications.

Mr. Sullivan was awarded a Certificate of honour by the organizers - the Nuclear Security Support Centre and the Centre for Energy Business and Infrastructure.

Advancing solutions for safe radioactive waste disposal between Finland and Bulgaria

UNWE — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 22:00:00 GMT

Finland’s decades-long experience in safe and responsible management of high-level radioactive waste was shared with Bulgarian stakeholders in a national cooperative workshop that was held on Thursday 29th October 2020. As part of the workshop, a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by Vice President Tommi Nyman of VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and Professor Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of the Bulgarian National Nuclear Security Support Center, Department “National and Regional Security” (UNWE) to further develop competences and research opportunities in the field of safe radioactive waste management. The workshop objectives were to bring together a wide delegation of parties aimed at fostering deeper cooperation towards the common goal of implementing a permanent waste repository in Bulgaria. The Bulgarian Ministry of Energy Petkova Temenuzhka provided endorsement in a letter of support, expressing “Finland’s long-standing experience in implementing the deep geological storage program will contribute to building up expertise and to nuclear energy in our country. The workshop will enable experts to exchange experiences with respect to the best environmental protection practices.” The workshop also addressed the recommendations of a 2018 IAEA Artemis mission to Bulgaria. According to Associate Professor Svetoslav Spassov, Director of the Nuclear Security Support Centre in Bulgaria, “this event is very important to Bulgaria, to advance their repository roadmap and readiness with concrete actions, technical targets, policy needs and communication plans.”

With regards to the Memorandum of Understanding, Dr. Erika Holt of VTT also emphasised that “there are a wide-range of lessons learned from Finland’s excellent experience in waste management, geological repositories, safety, stakeholder engagement and regulatory requirements that Finland is prepared to share with other countries looking to become the next leaders with us for implementing waste management solutions”. The workshop opening keynote messages were provided by the Bulgarian Ministry of Energy, Finland Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment - Energy Department, and Finland’s Foreign Affairs office represent by the Embassy of Finland in Bulgaria. Additional technical presentations about lessons learned and opportunities were shared by STUK International and VTT of Finland, along with the State Enterprise Radioactive Waste, Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant and UNWE of Bulgaria.

The event was facilitated by the involvement of Patria Group from Finland, aimed at strengthening mutual business opportunities between the countries. Miina Huovinen, Manager of Offset and Industrial Participation at Patria noted that “this type of event helps us to connect with experts from wide scale. Patria Land is interested in supporting Bulgaria in various ways as part of our Industrial Participation activities relating to the 8x8 wheeled vehicle acquisition program as part of the modernization of the Bulgarian armed forces”.

The outcome of the workshop included plans for concrete actions to be implemented in 2021 to facilitate the deeper cooperation.

Reports and presentations

Regional Workshop on Harmonizing National Nuclear Law with International Law Including European Law

UNWE — Tue, 21 Jan 2020 09:30:00 GMT

Harmonizing National Nuclear Law with International Law Including European Law is the topic of the five-days Regional Workshop of the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/ which was opened in the Large Conference Hall. The Forum was organized by the UNWE jointly with the IAEA as part of the IAEA Technical Cooperation /TC/ project INT0096 - Establishing and Enhancing National Legal Frameworks for Safe, Secure and Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy and Ionizing Radiation. The participants in the Workshop were representatives of institutions and experts from different countries nominated for the event by the IAEA, experts from the Bulgarian Nuclear Regulatory Agency /BNRA/ and Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant, students and lecturers from the speciality Economics of Defence and Security, specialization Nuclear Security.

Senior Res. Assoc. Lachezar Kostov, BNRA Chairman, Mr. Wolfram Tonhauser, Head of the Nuclear and Treaty Law Section, IAEA Office of Legal Affairs, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE, Mr. Anthony Wetherall, Legal Officer at the Nuclear and Treaty Law Section, Mrs. Sandra Marie Steyskal, Section Head, Division for Europe of the IAEA Department of Technical Cooperation /from the left to the right/

Opening of the Workshop

Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, Rector of UNWE and Head of the National and Regional Security Department greeted the guests and participants in the Workshop and outlined the significance of the topic for the nuclear security development in global scale. He pointed out that choosing the UNWE in the eve of its 100 Anniversary as host of the event had its reason. In the academic year 2015/2016 as a result of Cooperation Agreement in the field of education and scientific research concluded between the UNWE and IAEA, at the University was started the international Master`s degree programme Economics of Defence and Security, specialization Nuclear Security – the only one specialized programme on nuclear security in the world educating students from Bulgaria, Nigeria, Lebanon, Zambia, Jordan, Burkina Faso, Congo, Sudan, Mauritania, Uganda /part of them are IAEA scholarship students/. The Rector expressed his confidence that the Workshop would contribute to find solutions for strengthening the national nuclear legislations.

The Rector is greeting the guests and participants in the Workshop

Mr. Wolfram Tonhauser congratulated Prof. Dimitrov on the occasion of his election as Rector of UNWE and greeted the participants in the Forum on behalf of IAEA. He pointed out that the event had been organized in the context of IAEA Legislative Assistance Programme and outlined its major objectives: awareness among IAEA member states of the international instruments in the nuclear security field, assistance to them in complying with their international obligations and commitments as well as with the drafting of national nuclear legislations corresponding to the international nuclear legal framework.

Mr. Wolfram Tonhauser /the second man from left to the right/

Mr. Lachezar Kostov greeted the guests and participants in the Workshop on behalf of BNRA and outlined the importance of the topic. The Forum will contribute to providing more clarity and knowledge on the issues related to the harmonization of national nuclear legislations of IAEA member states with the international and European nuclear law, pointed out Mr. Kostov and expressed his confidence in the positive results of the Workshop.

Mr. Lachezar Kostov

The Rector presented a Greeting letter on the occasion of the Workshop by Mrs. Mariana Nikolova, Vice Prime Minister for Economic and Demographic policy.

In the Large Conference Hall

In the Workshop sessions were included lectures and discussions on issues related to the implementation of IAEA Legislative Assistance Programme, international legal framework for nuclear security, implementation of EU directives regarding the nuclear security and safety standards as well as nuclear law developments and challenges.

Reports were delivered by experts from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Hungary, Slovakia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, etc.

Participants in the Workshop

Professor from the UNWE Participated in the INSEN Annual Conference in Vienna

UNWE — Thu, 24 Aug 2017 12:24:52 GMT

Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Dean of the Economics of Infrastructure Faculty and Head of the National and Regional Security Department, took part in the International Nuclear Security Education Network /INSEN/ Annual Conference in Vienna. The academic network, whose member the UNWE has been since 2014, is under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/.

The Conference was opened by Prof. Oum Hakam /Morocco/ and Prof. James Larkin /South Africa/. The participants were welcomed by the IAEA Director for Nuclear Security Raja Adnan Raja. During the forum the INSEN governing bodies were renewed. Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov was elected as Deputy Chairman of the First Working Group on Nuclear Security Curriculum Development and he chaired several of the sessions.

The session of the First Working Group

The first presentation during the first plenary session was by Prof. Dimitrov and its main topic concerned the successful graduation of the first class of International Master's Degree Programme in Nuclear Security implemented by the UNWE which is the only one in the world.

Prof. Dimitrov during his presentation

The objective of the International Master's Degree Programme is to prepare highly qualified managers for the needs of nuclear security. The Programme already has two graduating classes with a total of 19 students, including 13 international students from 10 countries /Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, DR Congo, Jordan, Nigeria, Lebanon, Mauritania, Sudan, Uganda, Zambia/, some of the graduates are IAEA fellows. The Programme is supported by the Nuclear Regulatory Agency, Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant and the Ministry of Energy. The graduation of the first Master's students was attended by the Minister of Energy Temenuzhka Petkova, graduate of UNWE.

Prof. Dimitrov is presenting the results of the Master's Degree Programme

The Master's Degree Programme is in English, lasts for two years, combines theoretical and practical classes and includes 22 disciplines, laboratory exercises, technical visits, simulations, etc. More than 10 universities and institutions from Bulgaria and abroad participate in the Programme. The admission of the third class of students has already started.

The Programme is developed and implemented within the framework of the cooperation agreement between the UNWE and the IAEA signed by the Rector Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev and IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano during his visit to Sofia in June 2014. The coordinator for the implementation of the agreement by the UNWE is Prof. Dimitrov.

More information about the Programme: http://www.unwe.bg/nuclear-security/en

During the five-day event of INSEN issues related to the development of nuclear security curricula, the training and professional development of nuclear security educators and researchers as well as public awareness on those important topics were discussed in plenary sessions and working groups.

Moments from the working groups sessions

The participants in the INSEN Conference in Vienna, 24-28 July 2017

Lecturers from the UNWE Participated in Prestigious Forums of the International Atomic Energy Agency

UNWE — Wed, 24 Aug 2016 19:24:16 GMT

Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Dean of the Faculty Economics of Infrastructure Faculty and Head of the National and Regional Security Department, and Chief Assist. Dr. Georgy Penchev from the same Department took part in the Annual Conferences of the International Nuclear Security Education Network /INSEN/ and the Network of Nuclear Security Support Centres /NSSC Network/ in Vienna.

Prof. Dimitrov delivered a presentation on the practical lessons learned during the International Master's degree programme in Nuclear Security implemented by the UNWE.

Prof. Dimitrov during his presentation

The Master's degree programme is developed and implemented within the framework of the Cooperation Agreement between the UNWE and the IAEA signed by the Rector Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev and the IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano during his visit to Sofia in June 2014. The Coordinator for the implementation of the agreement by the uNWE is Prof. Dimitrov.

The objective of the International Master's Degree Programme is to prepare highly qualified managers for the needs of nuclear security. Its first class includes ten students from seven countries /Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Iraque, Jordan, Nigeria, Lebanon, Zambia/, some of the graduates are IAEA fellows. The Master's Programme is in English, lasts for two years, combines theoretical and practical classes and includes 22 disciplines, laboratory exercises, technical visits, simulations, etc.

More information about the Programme: http://www.unwe.bg/nuclear-security/en

Dr. Georgy Penchev took part in the work of the NSSC Network as well as in the joint sessions of both networks.

The NSSC Network was founded in 2012 in Vienna under the auspices of the IAEA. Its mission is to contribute building the international capacity in nuclear security through cooperation between the centres engaged in training in this field. The main tasks of the network are to achieve high quality nuclear security training and to promote cooperation and exchange between the centres.

Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov and Chief Assist. Dr.Georgy Penchev in front of the IAEA building

The UNWE as a member of the NSSC Network will represent our country at national and international seminars, conferences and meetings dedicated to nuclear security education. The University will develop nuclear security training programmes, conduct training needs analysis and develop plans in the area of cooperation related to the protection and non-proliferation of nuclear and other radioactive materials, will host national and international events.

In December 2015 the UNWE became the 53rd member of the International Network as a result of the implementation of the Cooperation Agreement between the UNWE and the IAEA establishing the Nuclear Security Support Centre whose Director is Prof. Dimitrov.

The participants in the meeting in Vienna, 22-26 August 2016

Professor from the UNWE Took Part in a Prestigious Forum in Islamabad, Pakistan

UNWE — Fri, 25 Mar 2016 12:30:15 GMT

Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Dean of the Economics of Infrastructure Faculty and Head of the National and Regional Security Department took part in the Annual Meeting of the International Network for Nuclear Security Training and Support Centers (NSSC Network) organized in Islamabad, Pakistan under the auspices of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Prof. Dimitrov delivered a presentation related to the International Master`s Degree Programme in Nuclear Security of UNWE and the forthcoming opening of the International Support Center for Nuclear Security of our university.

Prof. Dimitrov with the Chairwoman of the Network - the Ambassador Bonnie Jenkins from the USA and Deputy Chairman Naoi Yusuke from Japan during the sessions

The participants in the meeting visited the training and academic centers as well as laboratories for nuclear security of the Pakistan Armed Forces, Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority (PNRA), Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) and the Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science Technology (PINSTECH) in Nellore near Islamabad.

The visit to the PNRA laboratory in Islamabad

Prof. Dimitrov in the simulator hall for management of the Nuclear Power Plant Chashma 2

NSSC Network is founded in 2012 in Vienna under the auspices of IAEA. Its mission is to contribute to the building up of the international nuclear security capacity through the cooperation between the centers implementing training in the field. One of the main objectives of the Network is to provide a high level of nuclear security education, promotion of cooperation and exchange between the centers.

As the NSSC Network member the UNWE will represent our country in national and international seminars, conferences and meetings dedicated to the nuclear security education. The university will develop Programmes for nuclear security education, will make analysis of educational demands and will elaborate plans in the field of cooperation related to the protection and non-proliferation of nuclear and other radioactive materials and will be the host of various national and international events.

In December 2015 our university has become the 53rd member of NSSC Network as a result of the implementation of the Agreement of Cooperation between the UNWE and IAEA signed by the Rector Prof. D.Sc.(Econ.) Statty Stattev and the Director General Yukiya Amano during his visit in Sofia in June 2014.

Another important result of the implementation of the Agreement between the UNWE and IAEA was the start of the International Master`s Degree Nuclear Security Programme. Its objective is to prepare highly qualified managerial staff for the nuclear security demands. Ten students from six countries part of which are the IAEA scholarship students are already in the Programme. The Programme is implemented by the IAEA support in cooperation with a number of Bulgarian and international institutions and universities. It was recently signed also an Agreement of Cooperation between the UNWE and the Ministry of Energy.

For more information visit the Programme website: http://www.unwe.bg/nuclear-security/en.

The Rector Opened The First International Master`s Degree Programme in Nuclear Security in Bulgaria

UNWE — Tue, 02 Feb 2016 16:37:43 GMT

At an official ceremony the Rector of UNWE Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev opened the International Master`s Degree Programme in Nuclear Security. “I believe this first of its kind Master`s degree programme in Bulgaria will be successful and there will be achieved high results in the education”, said the Rector. He wished “Good luck!” to the Bulgarian and foreign Masters and their lecturers. At the event attended Mr. Dmitrii Nikonov from the Nuclear Security Directorate of International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/, Vienna, Austria, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Head of the National and Regional Security Department and Dean of the Economics of Infrastucture Department of UNWE, students and lecturers.

The Rector of UNWE Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev /in the middle/ officially opened the International Nuclear Security Master`s Degree Programme together with Dmitrii Nikonov from the Nuclear Security Directorate at the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/, Vienna, Austria /on the left/ and Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Head of the National and Regional Security Department and Dean of the Economics of Infrastructure Department of UNWE /on the right/

The programme is worked out and implemented in the frameworks of Agreement of Cooperation between the UNWE and IAEA signed by the Rector Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev and the Director General of IAEA Yukiya Amano during his visit to Sofia in June 2014. Coordinator for implementation of the Agreement from the UNWE is Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov.

The objective of International Master`s Degree Programme is the preparation of highly qualified managerial staff for the nuclear security. In the first alumni of the programme there will be educated eleven students form seven countries /Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Zambia, Iraq, Jordan, Nigeria, Lebanon/ and part of them are scholarship students of IAEA. The Master`s Degree Programme is in the English Language. It has duration of two years and combines theoretical and practical lessons. In the programme are included 22 disciplines, laboratorial exercises, technical visits, simulations, etc.

The Rector wished the participants in the programme “Good luck!”

In the education participate the lecturers team of the National and Regional Security Department, lecturers from Climent Ohridski University of Sofia, researchers from Acad. A. Balevski Institute of Metal Science, Equipment, and Technologies with Center for Hydro- and Aerodynamics at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (IMSETHC-BAS), experts from the Nuclear Regulatory Agency (NRA), Technical University of Sofia jointly with some foreign universities. Methodical assistance to the Programme is ensured by the IAEA and the International Nuclear Security Education Network whose member our university has become in the middle of 2014.

A photo of the Programme start

International Seminar on Human Resources Development in the Field of Nuclear Security

UNWE — Thu, 01 Oct 2015 14:21:19 GMT

A three-day International Seminar on the Human Resources Development in the Field of Nuclear Security was opened in the Large Conference Hall of UNWE. The Forum was organized by the National and Regional Security Department with the support of the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/ - Vienna, International Network for Nuclear Security Training, Nuclear Regulatory Agency, Ministry of Energy and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The opening ceremony was attended by the Rector of the UNWE Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev, Dr. Khammar Mrabit, Director of the Nuclear Security Directorate at the IAEA, H.E. Ambassador Svetoslav Spassov, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the UN, OSCE and other international organizations in Vienna, Guido Gluschke, Chairman of the International Network for Nuclear Security Training, Prof. Dr. Hristo Parvanov, Dean of the Economics of Infrastructure Faculty, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Head of the National and Regional Security Department, representatives of the National Assembly, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Energy, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant, Nuclear Regulatory Agency, etc.

At the opening of the Forum. From the right to the left: H. E. Svetoslav Spassov, Dr. Khammar Mrabit, Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, moderator of the event, Prof. Statty Stattev, Prof. Hristo Parvanov, Prof. Guido Gluschke

Welcome to UNWE - the largest and oldest economic university in Bulgaria", were the welcoming words by Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev to the participants in the International Seminar. The Rector reminded that in June 2014 a Cooperation Agreement between the IAEA and the UNWE for education and research in the field of nuclear security had been signed with the IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano. ”As a result of the agreement we have developed a Master's degree programme in Economics of Defence and Security with specialisation in Nuclear Security“, specified the Rector and pointed out that the Master's degree programme was implemented with the support of the International Network for Nuclear Security Training and several Bulgarian and international institutions, including BAS, King's College London, Middlebury Institute of International Studies and James Martin Centre for Disarmament Studies.

Prof. Stattev and Dr. Mrabit are opening the Seminar

"On the basis of the signed Cooperation Agreement between the IAEA and the UNWE, our colleagues, who took part in the development of the programme, successfully passed training courses in nuclear security in the USA, Indonesia, Morocco and Bulgaria”, added the Rector.

In the Large Conference Hall

Prof. Stattev referred to the presentation of the new Master's degree programme at the Forums of the International Network for Nuclear Security Training in Vienna during the current year and announced the proposal of Dr. Khammar Mrabit to organize practical courses to the programme. The Rector specified that the objective of Master's degree programme is to prepare highly qualified middle management level executives for the demands of the nuclear industry. “This workshop, hosted by our University, is a starting point, here opportunities and tools for human resources development in the complex field of nuclear security will be discussed and identified in line with the IAEA requirements and best practices. I am convinced that the participation of distinguished speakers, highly qualified experts, diplomats and executives is a guarantee for fruitful discussions on the most challenging and pressing issues related to the human resources development in the field of nuclear security”, pointed out Prof. Statty Stattev.

The Rector /on the right/ is presenting the objectives of Master's degree programme

“The IAEA programme includes many activities related to the theme of the Seminar, it provides professional development opportunities in the field of nuclear security”, pointed out Dr. Khammar Mrabit in his greeting to the participants in the event. He expressed his contentment with the opening of the new Master's degree programme at the UNWE and the fruitful cooperation between the University and the IAEA. The Head of the Nuclear Security Directorate at the IAEA expressed his thankfulness for the effective work done by the Rector Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev and the Head of National and Regional Security Department Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov and outlined that the educational opportunities provided by the new Master's degree programme are a significant contribution to the development of nuclear security and the prevention of nuclear terrorism.

Dr. Khammar Mrabit

The Rector Prof. Statty Stattev awarded to Dr. Khammar Mrabit the commemorative medal "Prof. Stefan Bobchev - Founder and First Rector of UNWE" "for strengthening the cooperation between the UNWE and the IAEA and for the support to the UNWE International Master's Degree Programme in Nuclear Security" /in the picture below/.

“The education in the field of nuclear energy is extremely important”, pointed out Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Kiril Stoychev who welcomed the participants in the Seminar on behalf of the President of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences Acad. Stefan Vodenicharov. “This training is strategic, it should be considered not only to the scientific field but also to the national policies and strategies”, pointed out Prof. Stooychev.

Проф. Стойчев (в средата) приветства участниците в семинара

“The seminar is an example of the fruitful and multilateral cooperation between the UNWE and the IAEA and the human resources are a key factor in the development of nuclear security”, outlined Ambassador Svetoslav Spassov. According to his words, the signed agreement between the two institutions as well as the University's membership in the International Network for Nuclear Security Training are a basis for pride and contentment.

Ambassador Spassov /on the left/

“We, from the government majority make every possible effort to extend the life of the 5th and 6th reactors of Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant”, pointed out Alexander Nenkov, member of Parliament and member of the Energy Committee to the National Assembly. He also outlined that the state looks for an opportunity to expand the nuclear capacity by building the 7th reactor of Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant. “There is an idea to create a Bulgarian nuclear cluster Kozloduy which will unite the state enterprises and private companies in the nuclear energy sector and will support to prepare professionals in the field.

Alexander Nenkov /in the middle/

Emil Bonev from the Nuclear Regulatory Agency outlined some important issues of prevention against nuclear terrorism, improvement of the system for protection of sites with sources of radioactive radiation, projects in the field of nuclear security, international cooperation in the field, etc.

The work of the International Seminar will continue in the next two days.

UNWE Master's Degree Programme Was Presented in Vienna

UNWE — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 08:09:15 GMT

The Head of the National and Regional Security Department of UNWE Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov took part in the Annual Meeting of the International Nuclear Security Education Network /INSEN/ which was held in the period 10-12 August in the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/ building in Vienna. In the event participated more than 120 scientists and experts from around the world.

Participants in the Annual Meeting in front of the IAEA building in Vienna

Prof. Dimitrov delivered one of the three presentations in the agenda of the meeting dedicated to educational programmes in the field of nuclear security. He presented the Master's degree programme in Nuclear Security in English launched by the UNWE in October. The Master's programme is for Bulgarian and foreign students and it is developed according to the requirements of INSEN and IAEA with the support of IAEA. The National and Regional Security Department is leading in the training. The lecturers will be from the UNWE, “St. Climent Ohridsky” University of Sofia, Technical University - Sofia, institutes of BAS as well as specialists from the practice, representatives of the University of Tennessee, USA, the Institute of International Studies in Monterey, USA, and King's College - London.

Prof. Dimitrov during his presentation

In the presentation of the Master's degree programme took also part Svetoslav Spasov, Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations Office, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe /OSCE/ and other international organizations, Associate Professor at the UNWE.

Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov /on the left/ and Ambassador Svetoslav Spasov /the second person from the right to left/ with participants in the Conference

The Master's programme and the provided materials about the UNWE provoked great interest among the participants in the meeting. Prof. Dimitrov held conversations with the IAEA representatives and participants in the meeting related to the preparation of the Master's degree programme and the upcoming International Seminar on Human Resources Development in Nuclear Security which will be held In the period 1-3 October.

Prof. Dimitrov /in the middle/ at the meeting in the Centre for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation in Viennaе

The objective of the Master's degree programme is to prepare highly qualified managerial staff for the nuclear security sector. It consists of 12 compulsory courses providing solid knowledge in fundamental areas such as law, nuclear technology and application, radiation protection as well as profound study of the main areas of nuclear security along with 10 elective courses for acquisition of specialization. The programme combines theoretical and practical classes, includes laboratory exercises, technical visits, simulations, etc.

INSEN is an international network of universities, research and other organizations involved in nuclear security training and education. The network now includes 141 institutions and organizations from 50 countries. UNWE was accepted as a member of INSEN in June 2014 when the Cooperation Agreement with the IAEA in the field of nuclear security education and research was signed during the visit of the Director General of the Agency Yukiya Amano to Bulgaria. Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, Head of the National and Regional Security Department, was appointed as representative of the UNWE in INSEN.

Public Lecture: An Overview of Nuclear Security

UNWE — Tue, 25 Nov 2014 14:48:08 GMT

A public lecture: An Overview of Nuclear Security was delivered at the university by Dr. Sara Kuchesfahani from the Center for International Trade & Security (CITS) to the University of Georgia, USA. The lecture was organized by the National and Regional Security Department and the Center for Strategic Researches in Defence and Security at UNWE as a preparation for the future international Master`s degree programme in Nuclear Security at the university.

During the lecture in the Small Conference Hall

Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Head of the National and Regional Security Department presented the lecturer Dr. Sara Kuchesfahani and her attendants Karen Cruz, Business Manager of CITS to the University of Georgia and Ira Plaxs, student girl at the Center.

In a brief presentation Karen Cruz explained the objectives and activity of the university center in Georgia as in the field of reducing the threat to human security posed by the trade in technologies and materials for mass destruction as in the educational Bachelor`s and Master`s degree programmes. Ira Plaxs shared her opinion about the training at the center, the disciplines studied by her and the preparation of student research projects.

Sara Kuchesfahani and Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov

The lecturer Dr. Sara Kuchesfahani examined in details the term “nuclear security” and the prevention, detection as well as the response in cases of theft, nuclear sabotage, illegal transfer or other malicious acts involving nuclear materials, radioactive substances or their associated facilities. The nuclear security has differentiated as a field of international security and programmes for improvement of the chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear culture has been elaborated, pointed out Sara Kuchesfahani.

In her presentation Dr. Kuchesfahani outlined the nuclear weapon free zones, the main threats to the nuclear security – nuclear terrorism, malicious uses of radiological substances, theft and sale of radiological materials. She emphasized also on the necessary steps for strengthening the nuclear security.

In the Conference Hall

Visit of IAEA Director General to Bulgaria

UNWE — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 21:00:00 GMT

On 30 June and 1 July 2014 the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/ Yukiya Amano visited our country at the invitation of the Bulgarian Foreign Minister. During a meeting, the Director General and the Foreign Minister discussed the excellent cooperation between Bulgaria and the Agency.

Minister Vigenin and Director Amano discussed the implementation of commitments by Iran under the IAEA Cooperation Agreement and the Agency's role with regard to the nuclear programme of Democratic People's Republic of Korea. The issue of the future of nuclear power after the earthquake in Japan in 2011 and the accident in Fukushima was also discussed. Director Amano visited Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant where he was acquainted with the measures taken by the Plant after the accident in Fukushima.

In the frameworks of the visit the Rector Prof. D.Sc./Econ./ Statty Stattev and the IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano signed a Cooperation Agreement between the University of National and World Economy and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the establishment of Master's Degree in Nuclear Security at the UNWE in the academic year 2015/2016.

Cooperation Agreement between the UNWE and the IAEA

UNWE — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 11:48:17 GMT

A cooperation agreement between the University of National and World Economy and the International Atomic Energy Agency /IAEA/ was signed by the Rector Prof. D.Sc. Prof. Statty Stattev and the Director General of the Agency Yukiya Amano. The event was attended by the Rector's Managing Body, Prof. Dr. Svetoslav Spasov, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Bulgaria to the UN Office, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe /OSCE/ and other international organizations, Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov, Head of the UNWE National and Regional Security Department, etc.

The objective of the agreement is to establish a practical framework for cooperation between the parties in the field of research and organization of Master's degree programme in Nuclear Security.

In the Academic Hall

Prof. Stattev pointed out that the UNWE is a leader in the higher education in Bulgaria with the highest assessment by the National Evaluation and Accreditation Agency among all Bulgarian universities. “Six prime ministers, 13 finance ministers, leaders in the business and administration are graduates of UNWE”, emphasized the Rector. “I am convinced that our university has all the necessary conditions for opening a Master's degree programme in Nuclear Security, pointed out Prof. Stattev.

Prof. Stattev and Mr. Amano are signing the agreement

Yukiya Amano expressed his contentment with the signing of the agreement between the UNWE and the IAEA. "I am grateful to the UNWE for opening this Master's degree programme. It will provide not only experts but also strong support by Bulgaria for the nuclear security sector", outlined Mr. Amano.

In the agreement is pointed out that the two institutions will cooperate in the formation of research teams in nuclear security in Bulgaria, education and training of personnel, participation of university staff in expert missions led by the IAEA, etc.

The document is signed

Prof. Stattev awarded to Yukiya Amano the commemorative medal "Prof. Stefan Bobchev - Founder and First Rector of UNWE" /In the picture below/.

Ambassador Svetoslav Spasov expressed his thankfulness for the tremendous work in preparing the agreement and the Master's degree programme in Nuclear Security. “They are oriented to the future and we are going to discuss the next steps. The Master's degree programme will attract not only Bulgarian undergraduates but also students from the European Union so we plan to work in cooperation with at least six other major European universities”, pointed out Svetoslav Spasov.

Yukiya Amano and Ambassador Svetoslav Spasov

“The agreement is the result of the efforts of many institutions”, said the Head of the National and Regional Security Department Prof. Dr. Dimitar Dimitrov. He determined the agreement as a huge step prepared for years.

Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov /in the middle/

In the Golden Book of UNWE Yukiya Amano wrote: "I am very pleased with the signing of the agreement between the UNWE and the IAEA. I am convinced that it will be particularly useful in creating professional experts who will play an important role in strengthening the nuclear security. I wish you success!"

After signing the agreement