Fatme Yuseinova Rashidova is a Senior Lecturer at the Technical University - Gabrovo , affiliated with the College of Engineering and the Department of Automation, Information and Control Technology . Her work bridges computer science , educational technology , and systems engineering . Research Focus: Automated scheduling, distance learning platforms, cybersecurity in Industry 4.0, and AI applications in education. Publications: 29 scientific works, including a 2025 textbook on internet-based systems and recent papers on timetabling optimization, SWOT analysis in education, and AI challenges. Projects: Participated in 14 research initiatives, including electronic voting systems, smart medicine dispensers, and cybersecurity frameworks for industrial environments. Contributions: Developed centralized timetabling systems, virtual admission environments, and online testing platforms. Her projects emphasize reducing administrative burdens, improving accuracy in educational processes, and enhancing student satisfaction.
Boyan Paskalev Bontchev is a Professor in the Department of Software Technologies at Sofia University's Faculty of Informatics. With a PhD in Computer Science from the Center of Informatics and Computer Technology - Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, he has established himself as a prominent academic in software engineering and educational technology fields. His academic career includes teaching Java Server/Side Programming and OOAD-UML courses at Sofia University and New Bulgarian University since 2000. Professor Bontchev's research focuses on e-learning systems, adaptive hypermedia, and software architecture. His work centers around developing self-adaptive educational platforms, with significant contributions to the ARCADE e-learning platform that complies with IEEE LTSA standards. He has published extensively on topics including courseware composition, learning content interoperability, and assessment frameworks, demonstrating a consistent research trajectory in educational technology systems. His publications reveal a strong emphasis on practical applications of educational technology, particularly in self-adaptive hypermedia navigation, e-learning courseware delivery, and assessment interoperability. The research shows progression from foundational work on software architecture to increasingly sophisticated adaptive learning systems that incorporate learner modeling and personalized educational experiences. Professor Bontchev maintains active industry connections, having worked as a software engineer and project manager at companies including Rila Solutions, ESDI Ltd., and OBLOG Software Ltd. His international experience includes research stays at the University of Vienna and Technical University of Aachen, contributing to his broad perspective on educational technology development. With proficiency in multiple programming languages and environments including Java, JSP, Oracle, and web technologies, he bridges theoretical computer science with practical educational applications. His multilingual capabilities (English, Portuguese, German, Russian, Spanish) further enhance his international research collaborations and academic contributions.
Chief Assistant Professor Gloria Hristova, PhD candidate in Data Science, holds a dual academic role at Sofia University's Department of Statistics and Econometrics within the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration. Her research focuses on applying machine learning and NLP techniques to business analytics, digital transformation assessment, and public sentiment analysis. She teaches courses on text analytics, machine learning for finance, and quantitative management methods. Active in open-source contributions, her GitHub repositories showcase projects in data science competitions and Python-based analytical tools development. Education: PhD Studies in Data Science (2019–present), Department of Statistics and Econometrics, Sofia University. Professional memberships include the Data Science Society. Research Interests: Business Applications of Machine Learning Sentiment Analysis in Public Services Automated Analytics Tools Development Text Mining for Customer Insights Published works analyze digital transformation in SMEs, public opinion on e-government services, and banking chat data analytics. Her recent projects employ transformer-based language models and BERTopic for topic modeling in crisis contexts like pandemic education shifts. Professional Affiliations: Representative of FEBA in the Assistant's Club at Sofia University. Collaborates with academic and industry partners on data-driven solutions for enterprise digitalization challenges.
Professor Teodora Mihaylova Davidova is a distinguished academic at the University of Veliko Tarnovo, where she serves in the Department of Theory and Methods of Physical Education within the Faculty of Education. With her academic credentials including 'Prof. Dr. Habil,' she has established herself as a leading expert in physical education and psycho-physical training. Her research interests span multiple areas of physical education, with particular focus on psycho-physical readiness for action in non-standard situations, military triathlon, adapted physical education for children with special needs, and the integration of tourism activities as training methods. Professor Davidova has developed comprehensive theoretical frameworks for understanding how physical and psychological preparedness interact in critical situations. Her scholarly output demonstrates consistent contribution to the field, with numerous publications examining the cognitive, volitional, and physical components of readiness. Her work on middle and long-distance running as a means to develop volitional structure, and her research on physical education for pregnant women and children with special educational needs highlight her diverse research portfolio. Professor Davidova has also contributed significantly to educational methodology, particularly in the teaching of athletics exercises in school settings and the optimization of distance learning for physical education disciplines. Her recent work addresses contemporary challenges in physical education, including digital learning environments and specialized training approaches. As an educator, she has developed comprehensive guides for psycho-physical preparation through game and tourism activities, and has extensively researched military triathlon in Bulgaria, documenting its history and development. Her work bridges theoretical understanding with practical applications across various physical education contexts.
Nikolina Ilieva Nikolova is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics , Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" , Bulgaria. Her work focuses on Teaching Methodology in Informatics , ICT in Education , and Competence-Based Learning . She contributes to international projects like Erasmus+ and MOTIVATE , exploring digital competence development and inclusive education strategies. PhD, Sofia University (2017), Pedagogy of Education (Informatics) Master Degree, Sofia University (1996), Mathematics and Informatics Her research emphasizes innovative teaching methods and digital transformation in education, particularly in secondary schools. Recent publications address peer-assessment , distance education impacts during the pandemic, and inclusive learning design . She co-developed educational tools like the PLEIADE Intellectual Output series and Share.TEC portal for teacher training. Key projects: 21st Century Skills (Erasmus+), Multicultural Classrooms (Erasmus+), SUMMIT (NextGenerationEU) Collaborates with institutions across Europe, including Italy, Spain, and Albania
Lilia Doncheva is an Associate Professor at the National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" in Bulgaria, affiliated with the Foreign Languages Section. She has dedicated her academic career to the study of Sports Psychology, English and American Literature, and pedagogical methodologies for English language instruction, with a focus on distance learning modalities. High School in Pleven (Russian and English language) College of North West London (Business and Finance) University of National and World Economy, Sofia (Economics and Management of Commerce) Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" (Postgraduate qualification in English language teaching) Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" (Master's in "Literature, Communication, Media") National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" (Doctoral degree in 2013) Her research spans interdisciplinary areas combining psychological frameworks for athletic performance, literary analysis of Anglo-American texts, and innovative approaches to language pedagogy. She has contributed to the development of distance learning curricula for English language instruction. Contact: liliyadoncheva@nsa.bg | Phone: +359 2 4014 230 | Mobile: +359 893398172
Assoc. Prof. Nadia Marinova, PhD holds an academic position at the New Bulgarian University , serving in the Department of Administration and Management . With a career spanning since 1996, she has held administrative roles such as Director of the Center for Distance Learning and coordinated numerous national/international projects. Education includes a PhD in Project Management from NBU and a Master's in Economics from UNSS Sofia. She teaches courses like Marketing Strategies in Tourism and Project Management in International Tourism . Her research focuses on Marketing, Tourism, Management, and Project Management , with recent work analyzing business model changes during pandemics, IoT applications in radar systems, and risk management in tourism. While her publications address both theoretical and practical aspects, collaborative projects with organizations like ENYC and EU programs dominate her career. Her projects include EU-funded initiatives like Transborder Integrated Tourism Business Center and industry collaborations with Lukoil Neftochim Burgas. She has contributed to youth policy frameworks and developed training modules for sustainable transport and leadership programs.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanka Koeva is affiliated with the University of Veliko Tarnovo (St. Cyril and St. Methodius University) as a faculty member of the Faculty of Modern Languages , specifically in the Department of Methodology of Linguistic and Literary Education . Her academic rank is Associate Professor in the field of German language pedagogy. Her research interests focus on foreign language education , with emphasis on self-assessment , error correction , multilingualism , and pedagogical methodology . She has explored the integration of digital media , intercultural communication , and student motivation in language learning contexts. Key trends in her 15 most recent articles include: Analysis of error correction techniques in pair/small-group settings Development of self-evaluation practices for language learners Challenges in multilingual education and curriculum design Innovations in German language teaching (DaF) Role of technology in modern language instruction Psychological and pedagogical frameworks for language acquisition Contact details: University email: ya.koeva@ts.uni-vt.bg Personal email: j.koeva@outlook.com
Asst. Prof. Hristo Chukurliev, PhD is a faculty member at the Department of Foreign Languages and Cultures at New Bulgarian University (NBU). He has held multiple administrative roles, including Director of the Central University Administration since 2018, Director of the Faculty for Remote, E-learning, and Continuing Education (2010-2018), and Dean of the Master’s Faculty (2002 onwards). Research Interests : Management models in education and social processes Digital transformation and e-learning technologies Historical evolution of civilizations and religions Future professions and higher education reform Publications & Projects : His work focuses on e-learning platforms (like Moodle), post-pandemic education, blockchain in education, and critical thinking. He led the project "Improving the quality of distance learning at NBU" under the Human Resources Development Program funded by the European Social Fund. Conference Participation : He has presented at international conferences on digital education, plagiarism prevention, and educational innovation (e.g., EDEN, ERUA Summit, GUIDE Conference).
Mariya Ivanova is an Associate Professor at the Department of Administration and Management, New Bulgarian University (NBU), with expertise in organizational development, human resource management, and adult learning. Her career spans over two decades, focusing on digital transformation in education, talent management, and EU education policies. Doctor of Economics (2012), Bulgarian Academy of Sciences Certificates in Personal Coaching (2010), Mentoring (2006), and multiple management qualifications Her research explores HR systems , change management , and educational technology , particularly in crisis contexts and multicultural environments. Recent work examines employer branding for green economy and digital tools in talent selection . Articles highlight trends in digital HR practices cross-cultural leadership lifelong learning social innovation education policy tourism workforce strategies She participates in international projects like B-WISE (Erasmus+) and HoCare Interreg Europe, focusing on skills development and home care innovation. Her roles include team leadership in student training programs and expertise in EU integration policies.
Prof. Mihail Konchev is an Associate Professor at the Department of Theory of Sport in the National Sports Academy 'Vasil Levski', Sofia. He concurrently serves as Deputy Chairman of the National Statistical Institute since July 2022. His academic roles include teaching advanced statistical courses in sports management, data analysis, and game theory applications at the Master's and PhD levels. Education: PhD in Economics (University of National and World Economy), dual Master's degrees in Software Technologies and Information Technologies. Research focuses on mathematical modeling for sports performance, probabilistic analysis of athletic form, AI applications in sports analytics, and statistical methodologies for sports management. He has published monographs and peer-reviewed articles on topics like predictive analytics in sports and injury profiles in weightlifters. Pedagogical roles include adjunct positions at multiple institutions, including the University of Sofia and New Bulgarian University, where he taught ICT disciplines until 2018. He also serves as a pedagogical expert at the Center for Distance and E-learning at NSA 'Vasil Levski'.
Делян Генков is an Associate Professor at the Technical University of Gabrovo, specializing in Computer Systems and Technologies. He holds a PhD in 'Modeling and Analysis of Time Losses from Fragmentation/Defragmentation in Internet IPv4.0 Protocol Stack' (2010). His academic career spans roles from Assistant to Associate Professor since 1995. He leads courses in Computer Networks, Network Security, and Internet Technologies at both bachelor's and master's levels. Member of IEEE and Bulgarian Union of Automation and Informatics Recipient of multiple best paper awards at international conferences Author of textbooks on networking fundamentals and laboratory exercises Research focuses on network protocols, virtualization, and quality of service. Active in over 20 scientific projects including EU-funded initiatives like ICT-Supported Vocational Training and ETN Doctoral Education in Computing. Developed notable software solutions for network configuration management and video surveillance systems.
Assoc. Prof. Milena Kuleva holds a Ph.D. from the National Sports Academy "Vassil Levski" and serves as Associate Professor in the Department DEOIT's Motion Analysis Information Technologies Section. Her roles include leading the Center for Innovative Educational Technologies (2024) and previously heading the ITAD Section (2020). She specializes in e-learning, sports pedagogy, and educational technology. Kuleva has extensive international project experience through EU programs like Leonardo da Vinci, Erasmus+, and Horizon 2020, focusing on distance learning and sports professional training. She is an award-winning researcher with a Fulbright Scholarship (2021) and has authored 25+ peer-reviewed articles including a monograph on online learning. Her editorial work includes roles with the Journal of Applied Sports Sciences and FIEP European Congress. Kuleva teaches courses in informatics, digital competence, and specialized software for sports disciplines. Education: Bachelor's: National Sports Academy, Physical Education & Tennis (2005) Master's: Sport for High Achievements (2007) Doctorate: Management of Interactive Educational Platforms (2016) Research Interests: Focuses on integrating technology into sports education, including VR applications in physical education, online proctoring systems, and athlete mental health. Her work emphasizes ethical issues like harassment prevention in sports and academic integrity in e-learning environments. She explores pandemic impacts on student success and physical fitness recovery post-COVID-19. Key Achievements: Organizing secretary for major international congresses (FIEP, Sport & Security series) Project evaluator for EU Sport Programme since 2020 Member of editorial boards for sports science publications Grants & Labs: Led projects on distance learning system development (2014) and digital education forms (2007-2013). Currently oversees the Center for Innovative Educational Technologies, focusing on adaptive e-learning platforms for sports professionals.
Stefan Stefanov is an Associate Professor at the Department of Economics, New Bulgarian University, where he has taught Macroeconomics, Introduction to Economics, International Economics, and Economic Policy since 1998. He previously served as Director of the "Business Administration" bachelor's program (1998–2010) and held roles in the Research Council under Bulgaria's President (2002–2011). His academic journey began with a PhD in World Economy from Moscow State University (1978) and a master's in International Economic Relations from the University of National and World Economy, Sofia (1972). Specializes in international economics, transition economies, and competitiveness Extensive editorial contributions, including co-editing translations of Gregory Mankiw's "Principles of Economics" (2012) Authored 51 publications, including monographs like "Competitiveness of Bulgarian Export Production" (1997) and "Bulgaria's Path to the World Economy" (1991) Research focuses on post-communist economic transitions, neoliberal reform impacts, and Bulgaria's EU integration. His work spans the Washington Consensus, currency board implications, and international trade dynamics. Google Scholar highlights include post-truth Europe's democratic challenges (2020) and comparative political systems analysis (2015). Publications from 1986–2009 cover trade policy, EU relations, and regional economic cooperation. Organizational experience includes directing distance learning programs and coordinating interactive forecasting teams. Fluent in English, Russian, and German, he has contributed to European Commission seminars and international research teams at American University (1991) and Harvard University (1983). His textbook "Principles of Macroeconomics" (2012) and monograph "The Heritage of Transition" (2009) reflect his expertise in socio-economic dimensions of reform.
Assoc. Prof. Yordanka Nikolova is affiliated with the Faculty of Education at the University of Ruse , specializing in the Department of Didactics. Her academic work focuses on adult education, teacher training, and family pedagogy, with additional expertise in gifted education, child rights advocacy, and project-based learning strategies. Adult Education Teacher Training Family Pedagogy Gifted Education Child Rights Project-Based Learning Recent publications highlight her contributions to novice teacher support in adult education, innovative pedagogical approaches in IT classrooms, and the role of family-school collaboration in inclusive environments. She has explored national identity preservation under globalization and developed frameworks for parental engagement in educational settings. Her research spans both theoretical and practical dimensions, addressing challenges in pedagogical implementation, cognitive activity stimulation, and ethical considerations in educational practices. Notable projects include guidelines for lifelong learning in evening schools and strategies for fostering parent-teacher interaction through team-building activities.
