IBSB celebrates the beginning of the New Academic Year: United in the Pursuit of the Light of Knowledge

With a formal ceremony and an atmosphere filled with excitement, the new academic year was officially launched at the International Business School. The auditorium was alive with the anticipation and enthusiasm of hundreds of students, faculty, and guests, united by a shared mission to embark on the journey toward the light of knowledge, striving for personal and academic growth.

Prof. Dr. Georgi Apostolov, the Rector of the International Business School, delivered an inspiring message to students, faculty, and guests. He highlighted the institution’s significant achievements over the years, emphasizing the high accreditation score of 9.35 received during the last evaluation, which ranks the school as the top private higher education institution in Bulgaria.

“Over the past 30 years, the International Business School has established itself as one of the most reputable educational institutions,” noted the Rector. He emphasized the importance of strong connections with business organizations and prestigious European networks, which ensure students have opportunities for successful professional realization. “We believe in the power of the human spirit to overcome crisis periods – through knowledge,” he added, encouraging students to learn from the experience of faculty members and successful business leaders whom the school attracts.

In his speech, the Rector also acknowledged the challenges of today, underlining that despite economic and political crises, the school remains a place of inspiration and opportunity. “We are opening this academic year inspired, full of energy and optimism, despite the challenges. We are happy to be together again, to experience once more the magic of learning, growing, and becoming who we dream to be,” he said, urging students to believe in the power of knowledge, to be brave, determined, and to give their best.

Prof. Milanka Slavova, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at IBS, welcomed faculty and students to the new 2024/2025 academic year. She wished everyone good health, inspiration, and strength. She greeted the first-year students with a warm “Welcome” to IBSB and added: “ Dear first-year students, you will be studying at a university that combines tradition with innovation. Every year, we update our specializations and curricula, improve our teaching methods, and enhance our technological learning platform. Every beginning is challenging, but with the combined efforts of your peers and us, your faculty, you will acquire the knowledge and skills needed to make decisions in a dynamic social environment. You will also create friendships that will support you in both your personal and professional lives. Best of luck on your journey!”

Ivana Gyurova, a Bachelor’s student in “Business Administration and Applied Psychology,” emphasized in her address to the students the importance of education as a means for personal and professional growth. She encouraged the first-year students to take advantage of the opportunities provided to them: “You are about to embark on an unforgettable journey. May it be filled with inspiration and exploration. You will experience moments that will leave a lasting mark on your hearts, gain knowledge that will change your perspective, and have experiences that will shape you as individuals.” She also highlighted the importance of bold dreams, responsibility, and humanity, which the International Business School fosters in its students. “Here, we learn not only how to be good professionals but also how to be good people—with open hearts, critical minds, and a desire to change the world,” added Ivana.

The event concluded with well wishes for a successful and inspiring year for all students from some of our faculty members. The International Business School continues to be a home for ideas, collaboration, and academic freedom, where every student finds inspiration and determination to achieve their goals.

After the official opening ceremony ended, the first-year students quickly immersed themselves in the friendly and inclusive atmosphere of IBS. They had the opportunity to meet with faculty and upperclassmen, which helped them feel like part of our academic family. Prof. Dr. Ivanka Asenova and Chief Assist. Prof. Dr. Atanaska Cholakova provided them with valuable guidance for a successful transition to university life. The first-year students were able to make new connections, exchange experiences, and receive answers to all their questions about their academic journey. The students expressed their excitement and eagerness to embark on this thrilling journey, filled with knowledge, discoveries, and opportunities.

The opening ceremony of the new academic year filled the auditorium with a spirit of inspiration, new perspectives, and a desire for growth that unite the university community in their pursuit of education, knowledge, and innovation.