President Rumen Radev will award young people with gold and silver awards from the International Duke of Edinburgh's Award in Varna on October 13, the press secretariat of the head of state announced. This gesture from the head of state underscores the institution's commitment to promoting youth development and recognizing the achievements of young people.
At the ceremony, which is expected to be solemn, President Radev will present the badges to those who have reached the gold level in the program. In addition to presenting the awards, the President will also address the participants in the initiative. His welcome speech is expected to emphasize the importance of personal development, perseverance, and community engagement.
The International Duke of Edinburgh's Award represents a significant tool for personal development, providing young people with the opportunity to face challenges and achieve personal goals. The program is implemented at three levels – gold, silver, and bronze – each of which requires a different duration and intensity of effort. Supported by mentors, young people are encouraged to dedicate themselves to various areas, including volunteering, physical activity, skills development, and adventures in nature. In Bulgaria, this internationally recognized youth personal development program is held under the patronage of the President, which further emphasizes its importance and the support of the state.
As part of his visit to Varna, the President will also visit Varna Free University "Chernorizets Hrabar", where he will have meetings with representatives of the academic leadership and the student community. This part of the program provides an opportunity for dialogue and exchange of opinions on key issues related to education and the future of young people.
We remind that in 2024, the head of state also presented the highest awards to young people who won the gold level in the International Duke of Edinburgh's Award – Bulgaria. This year, the program celebrated its 10th anniversary, with over 120 students being awarded in the three categories – gold, silver, and bronze. This figure testifies to the growing interest in the program and to the ever-increasing number of young people who strive for personal development and achievement.