One of the leading goals of SE in our country is to support the digitization of the Bulgarian industry. All experience and knowledge in digitalisation, automation, optimization and sustainability, to be passed on to the future generation. That is why in 2023 SE decided to focused on the project Sustainable education with Schneider Electric. Through it, the company aims to create a real link between business and education in our country, through which to prepare future generations to effectively enter into the application of scientific and practical skills acquired at the university.

For many years, the company has established lasting relationships with technology universities and degree programs across the country. In 2023, Schneider Electric signed a partnership agreement with universities in the country, with a special focus on “Paisii Hilendarski University” of Plovdiv. In the “Telecommunications & Management” program at the Physics and Technology Faculty of the university, we will conduct two one-semester courses dedicated to LINE and Energy Management, respectively.

SE is building links with tech. universities and the team is also keen to work with local authorities. SE has set up an Innovation Hub as a demonstration centre which is visited by students and faculty. Many years of effort have led to this significant project. It is part of SE's CSR policy to invest in local communities and create a bridge between generations, exchanging knowledge: from experts to young talent and vice versa. The period 2023 - 2024 and following the positive results so far aims

With the signing of the agreement between SE and “Paisii Hilendarski University” two courses dedicated to LINE and Energy Management were launched at the the “Telecommunications & Management” program. The students have the opportunity to SE Smart factory, but in addition they go through a full semester of preparation in each of the two areas with lecture-based learning and work on independent projects. The lectures are given on the most important areas from a technological and business point of view so as to give practical and applicable knowledge in a real environment. The total lecture hours are 120 hours and the hours dedicated to project work are over 160 hours. The project also includes sample equipment that students will have the opportunity to work with. The project gives access to quality education and professional development at an early stage. It maintains a digital network and monthly events for business and educational organizations to reveal the practical application of what has been learned at university and to promote the transition to a career.

The effort to create the program and launch it has been undertaken in 2022, with a launch date in 2023, but its effects are yet to be felt. Students gain knowledge from business and tech. outreach that they have not had access to. This is a rare case of involving business to share knowledge on topics where more specialists are needed in Bulgaria. Over 50 students are going through the courses and will increase. Teachers and students share that the project increases the attractiveness of education, motivation and prospects for students in Bulgaria. It is a motivation to live and work in the country and contributes to building a culture of ambition and achievement that local education needs.