With a grand ceremony, the 2025/2026 academic year for the English-language programs at Trakia University – Stara Zagora was officially opened. This year, 130 first-year students from various countries have been admitted to the English-language programs in Veterinary Medicine and Medicine. In the presence of international students, lecturers, and guests, the event began with the national anthems of Bulgaria and Europe, followed by welcoming addresses from the university leadership.

The Rector, Prof. Dr. Miroslav Karabaliev, welcomed the newly admitted students, wishing them confidence and perseverance on their path to knowledge, and offering them encouragement for the future: “You have come a long way from your homes, leaving behind your families, friends, and familiar surroundings. We know this is not easy. But please remember — from this day forward, you are not alone. Here, at our university, we become your family. We will learn together, share ideas, celebrate achievements, and support one another through challenges. Our community is built on respect, diversity, and kindness.”

 The Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Prof. Dr. Yulian Ananiev, addressed the new students with the following words: “Today marks not only the beginning of a new academic year, but the start of a life-changing transformation. Ahead of you lie years filled with challenges and hard work, but also with the satisfaction that comes from choosing the path of knowledge and a profession that transforms human lives.”

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lazarin Lazarov, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, welcomed the international first-year students with wishes for inspiration and success: “Trakia University is an institution with strong traditions. The quality of education offered here is comparable to the highest global standards and remains unmatched by many other universities. Our lecturers are exceptional professionals, fully dedicated to their mission — to prepare skilled specialists in their respective fields.”

On behalf of the student community, Michael Okoli, a fourth-year Medicine student, delivered a welcoming address. He shared his personal experience from his first years in Bulgaria and encouraged the newly admitted students to be patient and open to their new environment, emphasizing that adaptation takes time but that the university offers a supportive and friendly community.

The festive atmosphere was enriched by the musical performance of Desislava Andreeva, a student from the Faculty of Agriculture, who performed the iconic song “A Bulgarian Rose”, followed by the captivating rhythms of Trakian folklore.

The ceremony was hosted by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tsvetoslav Koinarski, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs, who concluded the event with the words: “Today, you become part of a vibrant, inspiring, and proud academic community. This marks the beginning of a journey filled with knowledge, discovery, and personal growth — a journey that will shape not only your careers but also the individuals you aspire to become.”

The event concluded with a performance of the student anthem “Gaudeamus igitur” and a symbolic toast, through which the new international students officially became part of the academic family of Trakia University – Stara Zagora.