Sofia has become a hub for over 600 researchers from 55 nations, who gathered in the grand hall of Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" for the 65th edition of the European Regional Science Association (ERSA) congress. The scientific event is held under the theme "Global Challenges and Regional Responses in an Era of Transition," with information about the forum being distributed through the press center of the Ministry of Education and Science (MES).

The conference was opened by Academician Nikolay Vitanov, Deputy Minister of Education and Science. In his speech, he stated: "We live in a time of profound technological, economic, demographic, and climate changes. These processes are global, but their consequences manifest specifically – in our cities and regions, in local economies, in universities, schools, and communities." According to the academician, addressing these challenges requires solutions that are tailored to local capacity, based on proven scientific data, and that engage local people in the implementation process.

In his address, Academician Vitanov emphasized the strategic importance of higher education. He noted: "Universities are not just places for education and scientific research. They are centers of talent, innovation, and social energy – natural partners of business, institutions, and local authorities. They can be drivers of regional development, create quality jobs, and retain young people, including outside the largest economic centers."

The organization of the event was entrusted to Sofia University in collaboration with the University of National and World Economy. During the opening ceremony, a greeting from Vice President Iliana Iotova was read, and European Commissioner Ekaterina Zaharieva participated via a specially prepared video address. The first discussion panel was led by Prof. Roberta Capello, President of ERSA, and Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Pekanov.

The congress program covers numerous key topics, including:

  • Regional inequalities and competitiveness;
  • Innovation strategies and sustainable development;
  • Transport systems and mobility;
  • Labor market dynamics and demographic processes;
  • Energy transition.

Prof. Eliza Stefanova, Rector of Sofia University, and Prof. Dimitar Dimitrov, head of the UNWE, also arrived for the official start of the event. Among the officials present was also Prof. Kosyo Stoychev, President of the Bulgarian Regional Science Association, the MES statement further noted.