site.btaEducation and Science Minister Describes May 24 as Unique Bulgarian Holiday that "No Other Nation Has"

In an address to teachers, scientists, academics, artists, and students on the occasion of the Day of the Holy Brothers Cyril and Methodius, of the Bulgarian Alphabet, Education and Culture, and Slav Letters, Education and Science Minister Krasimir Valchev said that “May 24 is our Bulgarian, unique, true holiday”.  He described it as “a holiday that no other nation has,” noting that “the work of the holy brothers and their disciples is our unique contribution to European and world civilization.” 

Quoted by his Ministry’s press service, the Minister expressed gratitude to Bulgarian teachers, lecturers, artists, scientists, writers, and those working in museums, community centres and libraries. In his words, these are “people we should believe in” and “people we, as a society, must invest in.”

“Today we honor our spiritual leaders - those who create meaning, culture and direction. Those who have shaped our past and those who lay the foundations for the future," Valchev said.

He added that “May 24 is the day when Bulgaria truly celebrates.”

"May 24 is more than just a date. It is the day when the strength of the Bulgarian spirit can truly be felt. It is a day of language, culture, spirituality – the things that connect us, wherever we may be in the world. It is on this day that belief in the future is at its strongest — in the bright future of our children. But in order to make it a reality, we must promote education and culture as national and budgetary priorities. Because education is our most direct - and only - path to building a prosperous and harmonious society. And spirituality and culture are the pathways to challenging the consumerist model of life that overwhelms us, instilling instead values and ideals. Few nations have the privilege of celebrating a holiday like 24 May. We do,” the Minister said.