site.btaConference in Sofia Marks 35th Anniversary of National Employment Agency

The National Employment Agency on Thursday marked its 35th anniversary with a conference on "(Im)possible Possibilities: Open the Door to Your Dream Job!" The event focused on modern employment policies and individual approach to support the activation of inactive and unemployed persons from vulnerable groups, the Government Information Service said.

In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov said: "I am convinced that through the joint work of institutions, employers, NGOs and society as a whole, we will continue to build bridges to opportunities - not only in a metaphorical sense, but through real solutions that bring prospects and security." According to Zafirov, the Government "remains consistent in its commitment to implement people-centered policies - with attention to those who need support the most, but also with a vision for a more just, inclusive and sustainable economy." 

Zafirov praised the Agency for its efforts aimed at those who are often placed in a vulnerable situation - young people who are still looking for a career, people with disabilities, the long-term unemployed, senior citizens who need a new chance. "In this dynamically evolving world, the approach must be individual, flexible and citizen-centred, not institutionalised," he argued.

At the forum, Minister of Labour and Social Policy Borislav Gutsanov announced the launch of two programmes worth over BGN 100 million. "Northern Bulgaria is, unfortunately, much more economically backward, and from today we are starting a programme for BGN 60 million for start-up businesses, in which at least 1,000 entrepreneurs will be able to apply for up to BGN 50,000, receiving not only financial support but also all the logistical support," Gutsanov explained.

The second programme is for BGN 46 million and is related to youth practices. The Minister explained that the money will go to young people who are studying or have their first job, and will be supported by the State in this way.