Malta and Bulgaria Partner to Enhance Early Childhood Education
The University of Malta’s Department of Early Childhood and Primary Education recently engaged in a productive collaboration with Bulgarian institutions to enhance early childhood education practices. Dr. Charmaine Bonello, a faculty member at the University of Malta and board member of the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society, led a visit to Bulgaria from March 4th to 7th, 2025. This visit fostered knowledge exchange and strengthened ties between the two countries in the field of early childhood education.
Knowledge Sharing at the University of Sofia
A highlight of the visit was Dr. Bonello’s presentation at the University of Sofia on the recently published book, “An Emergent Curriculum for the Early Years in Malta: Stories of Professional and Pedagogical Transformation.” This presentation sparked insightful discussions on rights-based, child-centered, and play-based curricula, emphasizing the emergent curriculum approach. The exchange of ideas between Dr. Bonello and the Bulgarian academics and students proved invaluable, highlighting the importance of sharing best practices and challenges in early childhood education across different contexts. A student at the University of Sofia remarked on the novelty of the emergent curriculum approach, underscoring the significance of this international collaboration.
Experiential Learning in Sofia and Plovdiv
Beyond the academic exchange at the University of Sofia, Dr. Bonello’s visit included a visit to a kindergarten in Sofia to observe practical applications of early childhood education principles. Furthermore, she engaged with experts at the Early Childhood Development Complex in Plovdiv, delving deeper into the intricacies of child development and care. These hands-on experiences enriched the collaborative visit, providing real-world insights into the Bulgarian early childhood education landscape.
Building a Foundation for Future Collaboration in Early Childhood Education
This collaborative visit was facilitated by Her Excellency President Emeritus Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca of the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society and Dr. Ivanka Shalapatova, Former Minister of Labour and Social Policy in Bulgaria. Dr. Shalapatova also contributed to the academic discourse by sharing her research on parent partnerships in early childhood education at the University of Sofia. The visit received further support from key figures and organizations including Prof. Dr. Vanya Bozhilova and Prof. Vanya Rossitsa Simeonova from the University of Sofia, Ms. Rossitsa Bogalinska-Petrova and Ms. Plamena Nikolova from Rise Bulgaria, and Mr. Trendafil Meretev and colleagues from the For Our Children Foundation. The active participation of academics, students, leaders, and educators in Bulgaria ensured a fruitful exchange of knowledge and expertise. The strong partnerships forged during this visit promise continued collaboration and innovation in early childhood education between Malta and Bulgaria.
Looking Ahead: Continued Partnership in Early Childhood Education
The University of Malta remains committed to fostering international collaborations to advance early childhood education. The insights gained from this visit to Bulgaria will inform future research and practice in Malta, contributing to the ongoing development of high-quality early childhood education and care. The collaboration between the University of Malta and Bulgarian institutions signifies a shared dedication to improving the lives of young children through impactful educational practices. This partnership serves as a model for international cooperation in the field of early childhood education, demonstrating the power of shared knowledge and experience to create positive change.
Take the Next Step in Early Childhood Education
Are you passionate about early childhood education? Learn more about the Department of Early Childhood and Primary Education at the University of Malta. Explore degree programs, research opportunities, and ways to get involved in shaping the future of education. Visit the University of Malta website today to discover how you can make a difference in the lives of young children.
