Bulgarian Businesses Face Shortage of Engineering and Technical Graduates

Nearly 80% of Bulgarian business representatives highlight a critical need for university graduates in engineering and technical sciences, according to a survey by the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). Additionally, 22% report demand for specialists in natural sciences, mathematics, and IT, while 19% seek professionals in social, economic, and legal fields, CE Report quotes BTA

The survey, conducted between January 29 and February 5, also found that 60% of businesses require skilled workers with secondary education, including electricians, welders, machine operators, technicians, and sales staff.

BCCI President Tsvetan Simeonov noted that 90% of employers believe graduates lack sufficient practical skills, while 44% cite poor communication abilities and 36% point to gaps in basic economic knowledge. Only 18% of respondents consider graduates' skills satisfactory.

These findings will inform decisions on student admissions to Bulgarian universities for the 2025/2026 academic year.