CELEBRATION OF CULTURAL DIVERSITY AT THE AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY – PLOVDIV

On 23th May 2025 the Agricultural University – Plovdiv (AUP) hosted a festival promoting diversity, inclusion and multiculturalism (important values of the European Union and the UNIgreen Alliance). The festival combined three events: 24^th May - the Day of St. St. Cyril and Methodius (the creators of the Bulgarian alphabet), the Bouquet of Nationalities initiative and the Plant Charming Day. The festival took place within the University’s 80^th  anniversary framework and brought together students, academic and non-academic staff, guests, and representatives of cultural and educational institutions.

The promotion of diversity and intercultural understanding is not only central to the university’s mission but also aligned with broader European values and policy priorities. In this context, the Agricultural University – Plovdiv proudly affirms its membership in the UNIgreen European University Alliance, an academic consortium committed to fostering green education, sustainability, inclusion, and diversity as fundamental guiding principles. The university’s active engagement in this alliance reflects its strategic orientation toward international cooperation, ecological responsibility, and social equity within the European Higher Education Area.

A welcome was extended by the Rector of AUP, Assoc. Prof. Boryana Ivanova emphasised the University`s role as a centre of academic excellence, scientific innovation, and intercultural dialogue.   

Prof. Dimo Atanasov, Vice Rector of the Scientific and International Affairs, presented the Bouquet of Nationalities initiative.  Students from over fifteen countries shared their unique cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, and cuisine. This vibrant exchange underscored the Agricultural University’s commitment to multiculturalism, international integration, and inclusive education.

The celebration concluded with a traditional Bulgarian ring dance (called horo), embodying the spirit of community, continuity, and shared cultural values.