The application process for the Academy "Economics and Management in the Water Supply and Sewerage Sector" is now open. Registration is possible until November 11, 2024, with the first semester beginning on December 1, 2024.

This is the 17th edition of the Academy, organized in partnership between the Center for Educational Services of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" and the Center for Training and Qualification at "Utilities Services".

The program offers flexible learning options, allowing participants to continue their professional work without interruption. There are 12 classroom-based modules, forming 24 days of in-person learning throughout the program.

This postgraduate qualification program is aimed at managers, experts, and employees working in water supply and sewerage companies, suppliers, contractors, employees in water treatment plants for domestic and industrial needs, engineering infrastructure departments in municipal and regional administrations, water supply and sewerage associations, government agencies, as well as financial and banking consultants in the water sector.

Participants who complete the academic program will be awarded a Professional Qualification Certificate in "Economics and Management of the Water Supply and Sewerage Sector" accredited by the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" (registered and recognized by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Bulgaria, in accordance with the regulations on unified state requirements for the content of the main documents issued by higher education institutions, published in State Gazette No. 75 of 27.08.2004). These certificates will also be accompanied by a Certificate with a European supplement.

The program lasts for one calendar year, consisting of two academic semesters and one semester dedicated to the preparation of a diploma thesis.

During the first semester, emphasis will be placed on the state and development of network industries in Bulgaria and Europe, with a detailed review of aspects of the water industry and an analysis of the regulatory framework and application of European directives in the sector since 2010. The principles and specific features of managing water supply and sewerage assets and their ownership will be discussed. Industry experts will explore pricing principles and their connection to the achievement of target levels for the provided water services. Financial and economic indicators, which influence final consumer prices, will also be discussed.

In the second semester, the focus will be on the quality of services provided to the population and businesses, as well as mechanisms for their improvement. Experts will discuss applicable models for increasing operational efficiency in water supply operators, particularly in terms of asset operation, maintenance, and service. Several modules will cover modern management practices in water companies, the preparation and implementation of business plans for water operators, and best practices will be shared by leading professionals.

REGISTRATION FORM FOR PARTICIPATION.