The objective of the reform is to enhance the effectiveness of higher education across the territory of Bulgaria. The reform includes: 1. the entry into force of the amendments to the Higher Education Act. The amendments shall include the introduction of fees exemption for students who sign a traineeship agreement with an employer; new programmes targeting sectors with expected labour market shortages; as well as an updated system of accreditation of higher education institutions; 2. the adoption of the National Map of Higher Education, which shall provide an analysis of the offer of higher education and resources available across the territory; 3. the adoption of an action plan containing the measures addressing the recommendations of the Strategy for the Development of Higher Education in the Republic of Bulgaria 2021-2030. The Strategy shall set key objectives and make recommendations to foster access to quality higher education, increase the labour market relevance of higher education and promote research, including via the development of international research networks. The implementation of the reform shall be completed by 31 December 2022.
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