Situated in Bulgaria’s capital, Sofia, the Gurgulyat building of the country’s National Sports Academy has undergone extensive modernisation with support from EU funding. The process has breathed new life into the historic building by bringing its infrastructure into line with contemporary standards, motivating a new generation of students to embark on careers in sport.
- 22 December 2020
'This is a successful project because we have not only renovated this infrastructure and built a multifunctional hall – that is only the initial result. Even more important is the added value it has created. We have brought new life to this unique building in the heart of the capital.'
Given its central location in Sofia, the building’s renovation presented a sizeable challenge. Following preparation work and the selection of contractors, an annex containing a multifunctional sports hall was built and fitted out.
In addition, major refurbishments were carried out on the existing building and adjacent yard area. The latest equipment and furnishings were acquired.
A pre-eminent sports science centre
Named after Bulgarian national hero, Vassil Levski and founded in 1942, the National Sports Academy provides high-level training for careers in sport and related activities. Most of its teaching facilities are on Sofia’s Student City campus.
Its sports facilities include football pitches, athletics tracks, tennis courts, gyms and an indoor swimming pool, and external bases for mountain and water sports. Students have dormitories, recreation areas, canteens, medical and dental centres and a career guidance and counselling service.
In recent years, the academy has reinforced its role as Bulgaria’s pre-eminent sports science centre. Moreover, it helps meet strong labour market demand for sports teachers by providing training in education. Programmes are offered at bachelor, master and doctoral levels.
To increase European integration in the field of education, the National Sports Academy works constantly to match its standards with those of other EU universities. Its graduates and qualifications are highly regarded in Bulgaria, elsewhere in Europe and worldwide.
Improved teaching methods
Before the renovations, the infrastructure at the Gurgulyat building was outdated and did not meet contemporary requirements. The improvements have supported the academy’s modernisation of its teaching methods and services.
By providing an educational environment that is attractive to young people and conducive to sustaining their interest, the project should have a positive impact on students’ motivation, and on their professional lives. The work has helped to ensure equal access to courses at the academy for people from disadvantaged groups.
Total investment and EU funding
Total investment for the project “Modernisation of the building of the National Sports Academy Vassil Levski, Sofia” is EUR 1 874 790, with the EU’s European Regional Development Fund contributing EUR 1 669 027 through the “Regions in Growth” Operational Programme for the 2014-2020 programming period. The investment falls under the priority “Regional educational infrastructure”.