University of agribusiness and rural development Yearbook
University of agribusiness and rural development - Plovdiv
ECOLOGICAL AND ECONOMIC DIMENSIONS OF NO-TILL AGRICULTURE: A SUSTAINABLE MODEL FOR MODERN AGRIBUSINESS
An attempt has been made to examine the agroecological, climatic, and economic effects of conventional farming based on deep plowing and No-till technology, which is characterized by the complete exclusion of mechanical tillage. This analysis is based on the impact of the two tillage systems on the soil humus balance, erosion processes, biological activity in the soil, and the carbon cycle. Parameters such as fuel and labor costs, investments in equipment, yield dynamics, and long-term profitability are compared. Based on existing scientific publications and results from various empirical observations, the potential of No-till farming to reduce carbon emissions and increase the sustainability of agroecosystems is examined. The results show that, despite the difficulties in the initial transition period, No-till farming has significant environmental and economic advantages in the long term. The study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the possibilities for applying this type of resource-saving technology as an opportunity for the development of sustainable agriculture.
VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN BULGARIA - CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT
Vocational education and training (VET) is a key factor in preparing young people for the labor market and supporting the country's economic development. This report examines the state of VET in Bulgaria, the main challenges facing the system, as well as the opportunities for its improvement. The analysis includes a brief overview of the regulatory and institutional framework, the specifics of the organization of training and current trends in practice. Emphasis is placed on the need to modernize the educational base, improve the relationship between schools and business, develop teaching staff and increase the motivation and emotional well-being of students and teachers. The report concludes with practical recommendations aimed at sustainable and effective development of the system.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nevena Lyaskova-Velikova
STORYTELLING AS A TOOL FOR CREATING EMOTIONAL BRAND VALUE IN AGRITOURISM
This article explores the growing significance of storytelling as a strategic tool for shaping brand identity and enhancing customer engagement, with particular emphasis on its application in agritourism. While global marketing cases such as Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” and Dove’s “Real Beauty” illustrate the effectiveness of emotional narratives, the study extends this concept to rural tourism, where authenticity, cultural heritage, and lived experience play a central role. The research examines how farm histories, family traditions, seasonal agricultural practices, local crafts, and gastronomic heritage collectively form an authentic rural identity that cannot be artificially reproduced. Drawing on the concepts of constructivist authenticity and performativity, the article argues that authenticity in agritourism emerges through host-visitor interaction. By analyzing international and Ukrainian examples, the study demonstrates that storytelling not only enhances destination branding and emotional connection but also contributes to cultural preservation and sustainable rural development.
Copyright (c) 2026 Stanislava Varyvoda, Denis Zdor, Olga Shepeleva
MAIN PROBLEMS OF REAL ESTATE AS AN INVESTMENT TOOL
Real estate markets (REM) differ from centralized financial markets in their fragmentation, opacity, information asymmetry and illiquidity. Each property is unique and localized, which hinders standardization and centralized pricing low or negative correlation with that of stocks and bonds, which helps reduce overall portfolio risk. REM act as an effective hedge against inflation. Traditional methods of real estate valuation are inflexible and have difficulties in valuing illiquid, large-scale assets or properties with exceeding rents. The growing role of debt financing requires appraisers to have a higher level of financial expertise. Investment markets are affected by a short-term approach that prioritises current profits and dividends at the expense of long-term strategic objectives, including Research and Development (R&D) investments. This approach, which is supported in part by financial institutions (although they shift some of the blame to management), is extremely unfavourable for REM and the construction sector due to their long-term production cycle. Short-term thinking exacerbates problems with illiquidity and the risk of a price collapse in forced sales. Success in the real estate sector requires long-term strategies and a focus on long-term returns.
BASIC PRINCIPLES AND ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS
This analysis considers real estate as a fundamental asset class and defines investment property through its function to generate rental income, positioning it in the conditions of alternative investment markets. The critical macroeconomic importance of real estate is highlighted, illustrated through three main roles: factor of production, corporate balance sheet asset, and the report explores the integration of financial techniques such as securitization and asset pooling, which increase the liquidity of property investments. An in-depth understanding of the process is based on the distinction of three important aspects: Capital value and income assessment; Ownership, which imposes significant legal and operational responsibilities and Economic value derived from the fixed supply of land and the concept of economic rent
The report explores the challenges of real estate valuation, highlighting the fundamental distinction between value and price. While the economic concept of value is tied to utility, it has limited practical applicability. The price is determined on the market, but does not coincide with the valuation (value) of the property, since the real estate market is decentralized and fragmented. The main problem is rooted in market imperfections: difficulty in tracking transactions, limited knowledge of external parties about the actual transactions and the changing circumstances of the purchase and sale. The report notes that valuation is also required in the absence of a transaction (e.g. for mortgage, tax purposes), in which case the value is adjusted according to its intended purpose. In commercial real estate investment markets, the information asymmetry is strong: information about rents, conditions and profitability remains confidential and is transmitted orally, making the market risky for investors. In conclusion, the importance of diversification of the investment portfolio is emphasized. The investment decision for a property should not be considered in isolation, but through the prism of its effect (correlation) on the entire portfolio of assets (shares, bonds, cash).
FORECASTING MIGRATION OUTFLOWS AND DEMOGRAPHIC SUSTAINABILITY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA IN THE CONTEXT OF EUROPEAN TRENDS (2025–2040)
This article is devoted to forecasting the demographic situation in the Republic of Moldova up to 2040, with particular emphasis on contemporary migration trends and the persistent population outflow from the country. Moldova currently represents one of the most demographically vulnerable states in Europe, experiencing a net population loss of approximately 115 persons per day. For a country with a relatively small population size, such a sustained decline constitutes a serious long-term threat not only to demographic sustainability but also to economic development and social stability. The study examines the combined impact of international migration, natural population decrease, and age-structure transformation on future demographic dynamics. Using official statistical data and scenario-based projections, the article outlines potential trajectories of population change and assesses their implications for the labor market, public finances, and human capital formation. The findings aim to contribute to the academic and policy-oriented debate on demographic resilience and migration management in small transition economies. Acknowledgements: This article was elaborated within the framework of the Subprogram 030101 “Strengthening the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the economy of the Republic of Moldova in the context of the accession process to the European Union”, institutional funding.
IMPROVING FINANCIAL EDUCATION IN THE CONTEXT OF FIGHTING POVERTY
The scientific report characterizes the nature and features of poverty. The indicators for measuring its level are presented. The possibilities for improving financial education and increasing the financial literacy of the population as effective approaches to combating poverty are systematized.
MOTIVATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF A MOTIVATION STRATEGY IN ORGANIZATIONS
The term “motivation” is part of the life of every individual and part of the “life” of every organization. People describe it in different ways—as a need, a goal, a drive, a desire, and so on. There is no universal formula for motivation that can be applied across all organizations in order to motivate human resources. Nevertheless, organizations can develop a motivation strategy and apply both classical and contemporary methods and techniques to motivate their employees. The present paper emphasizes the essence of the term “motivation” and the development of a motivation strategy aimed at encouraging employees in organizations to perform better and to utilize their full potential, creativity, competencies, and skills.
IT SERVICES FOR BUSINESS: TYPES AND FEATURES
This article analyzes the IT services used in enterprises, their types and features. Currently, any public or private organization, whether medical, scientific, or educational, cannot function without an information infrastructure. To ensure uninterrupted and safer functioning, a number of technical and organizational measures are required. Large organizations have a special staff for IT services, while small and medium-sized enterprises request assistance from outsourcing. IT services for businesses include various types of support, from outsourcing and consulting to software development, security, and cloud services. The main features include increasing productivity through automation and optimization, ensuring security against cyber threats, scaling resources according to business needs and minimizing costs. Note: The article was elaborated within the Subprogram 030101 „Strengthening the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the economy of the Republic of Moldova in the context of the accession process to the European Union”, institutional funding.
A FRAMEWORK FOR “COMPLIANCE” OR “FAIR REPRESENTATION” WHEN PREPARING A SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
The applicable sustainability reporting framework is regulated by European directives, transposed in Bulgaria through the Accounting Act. The reporting frameworks are for “compliance” and for “fair presentation”. The compliance framework requires the entity to comply with the requirements of the regulation, law, and/or framework or standards. In addition to these requirements, the fair presentation framework also requires the provision of information beyond that specifically required by the compliance framework, if necessary, to provide a more complete picture to achieve a fair presentation. In rare cases, the fair presentation framework may deviate from a requirement of the compliance framework, if necessary to achieve an overall fair presentation. This may be required when compliance with the rule would result in incomplete or inaccurate disclosures or would reduce the usefulness or relevance to stakeholders. Without the application of a fair presentation framework, the financial sustainability audit will provide only limited, rather than reasonable, assurance. The methods of analysis and synthesis, comparison and analogy are used. European directives should adopt texts regulating the application of a fair presentation framework. The amendment should be transposed into Bulgarian accounting legislation.
CYBERSECURITY AT ITS BEST: PRACTICAL METHODS FOR REINFORCING ACCOUNT PROTECTION
The growing dependence on digital platforms for communication, data storage, and service delivery has made user accounts a central element in contemporary cybersecurity. As cyberattacks increasingly target personal credentials and authentication processes, the threat spectrum has shifted from purely technical vulnerabilities to a combination of technical and human weaknesses. This article examines practical methods for reinforcing account protection by analyzing authentication practices, device-level safeguards, and user behavior. The study highlights the persistent challenges posed by password reuse [1], insufficient multi-factor authentication [4], and manipulation through social engineering. Particular attention is paid to the role of adaptive authentication and the transition toward passwordless systems, which are gradually redefining security standards. Furthermore, examples from cybersecurity reports and institutional guidelines illustrate the frequency of identity-based breaches and point to necessary changes in user habits and organizational practices. The analysis demonstrates that effective account security depends on a multilayered strategy that integrates strong credentials, secure devices, awareness of deceptive techniques, and consistent use of advanced authentication tools. The findings indicate that modern cybersecurity can no longer rely on isolated defenses but must instead adopt a holistic framework capable of responding to evolving threats and increasingly targeted attacks [1] [5] [6] [8] [9].
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE WINE SECTOR IN THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA IN THE CONTEXT OF INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
The wine sector in the Republic of Moldova is one of the most important branches of national agriculture, playing a strategic role in the country's economy, in the development of rural areas, and in promoting the image of the country on international markets. Benefiting from favorable soil and climate conditions, centuries-old traditions, and a valuable wine heritage, the sector is in a continuous process of restructuring and modernization. This article analyzes the current opportunities and trends in the development of the wine sector, with a focus on the orientation towards high-quality wines, products with Protected Geographical Indication and Protected Designation of Origin, diversification of export markets, and adaptation to climate change. The study highlights the impact of public policies, as well as the role of investment and alignment with European Union requirements on the competitiveness of the sector. The results confirm that technological modernization, the promotion of indigenous varieties, and the expansion of exports are key factors for increasing the resilience and sustainable growth of the wine sector in the Republic of Moldova in the medium and long term. Note: The article was elaborated within the framework of Subprogram 030101 „Strengthening the resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability of the economy of the Republic of Moldova in the context of the accession process to the European Union”, institutional funding.
Copyright (c) 2026 Tatiana Iatisin, Tatiana Colesnicova
WINE CULTURE AS A RESOURCE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF TOURIST AREAS
Wine culture is an essential component of regional identity, cultural heritage, and socio-economic development. Formed over centuries under the influence of natural conditions, historical traditions, and intercultural exchanges, viticulture and winemaking have shaped unique landscapes, local customs, and gastronomic practices in many parts of the world. Today, wine culture functions not only as an agricultural and culinary phenomenon but also as a tool for sustainable development of tourist areas. It promotes regional branding, supports small and medium enterprises, stimulates rural economies, and preserves traditional knowledge. This study examines the cultural, historical, and environmental dimensions of wine heritage, its role in shaping wine tourism, and its contribution to sustainable development. Special attention is paid to wine routes, local communities’ involvement, international wine festivals, and innovative approaches such as organic viticulture, digitalization, and experiential tourism. Wine culture demonstrates significant potential for strengthening tourism attractiveness, enhancing global competitiveness, and fostering long-term sustainability in tourist destinations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Violetta Maximova, Alina Shpychka, Ganna Sarkisian, Olga Shepeleva
BREATHING DISORDER AFTER LUNG CANCER SURGERY
Surgical treatment remains the mainstay of treatment for patients with early or locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer. Despite advances in surgical techniques and perioperative care, postoperative respiratory distress is a common and clinically significant complication. It affects the recovery, quality of life, and prognosis of patients. This article reviews the main types of respiratory distress after lung cancer surgery, their pathophysiological mechanisms, risk factors, and clinical significance.
PRESERVATION OF TIDAL VOLUME IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE PULMONARY SURGERIES FOR LUNG CARCINOMA
Minimally invasive surgical techniques in the treatment of lung cancer have established themselves as the gold standard in early stages of the disease and in carefully selected patients with advanced pathology. One of the key indicators of the success of these interventions is the preservation of tidal volume and functional lung reserve. This text reviews the physiological, surgical and anesthetic aspects of tidal volume preservation in video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) and robot-assisted thoracic surgery (RATS), as well as their clinical significance for postoperative recovery.
INSTITUTIONS IN THE SYSTEM OF PRESCHOOL AND SCHOOL EDUCATION
Institutions in the system of preschool and school education represent an interconnected and hierarchically organized structure that ensures the effective functioning of the educational process in Bulgaria. Through them, the state policy in the field of education is implemented, aimed at ensuring equal access, quality of education and support for the personal development of every child and student. In modern conditions, institutions in the educational system are faced with a number of challenges. Overcoming these challenges requires a targeted policy, good coordination and active participation of all stakeholders.
INTERCONNECTION OF SLEEP, NUTRITION AND RECOVERY PROCESSES
The relationship between sleep, nutrition and recovery processes is considered, which is of great importance for the prevention of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular and neuropsychiatric diseases, as well as for maintaining homeostasis.
Copyright (c) 2026 Viktoriya Onupko, Yuriy Masikevych
MEDICAL WASTE AS A POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTANT
The progressive development of medicine, at the current stage of civilization, not only saves millions of lives, but also creates the problem of accumulating medical waste. A significant increase in the amount of potentially hazardous medical waste negatively affects both human health and the state of the environment. Medical and similar waste is waste resulting from medical care or similar practices, and waste is generated in medical and other institutions during research, patient care or when performing research work (using syringes, medical needles, contaminated cotton wool, bandages, dressings, gloves and other medical practice waste), drugs and substances (including veterinary), medicinal products and goods (including aerosols), their remains are spoiled, expired or not identifiable. Only companies that have a license for this, as well as special equipment, technology and qualified personnel can dispose of medical waste.
QUALITY MANAGEMENT IN THE SCHOOL EDUCATION SYSTEM
Quality management in the school education system is a fundamental tool for achieving efficiency, trust and sustainable development. It requires not only a regulatory framework and institutional control, but also the commitment of all participants – the state, schools, teachers, parents and students. It is not a one-time process, but a continuous cycle of planning, implementation, evaluation and improvement of school activities.
PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TASTING BUSINESS AS A DRIVER OF RURAL AREA DEVELOPMENT
The tasting business is becoming an increasingly significant component of rural tourism and a strategic driver of local economic development in many countries. Activities based on wine, cheese, honey, craft beverages, and farm-based product tastings play a crucial role in the diversification of rural economies by transforming traditional agricultural production into high-value tourism experiences. Such activities not only generate additional income for rural households and small producers, but also contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage, traditional production methods, and local identity, which are essential elements of sustainable territorial development. This paper examines the theoretical foundations of the tasting business within the framework of rural and gastronomic tourism and analyzes international experience in the organization and promotion of tasting-based tourism products. Particular attention is given to the socio-economic impact of tasting activities on rural areas, including employment creation, entrepreneurship development, infrastructure improvement, and demographic stabilization. The study also identifies key challenges faced by tasting businesses in transitional economies, such as limited financial resources, insufficient marketing capacity, and weak institutional support. Special emphasis is placed on the role of tasting routes, experiential tourism, local branding, and sustainable development mechanisms as tools for increasing the competitiveness of rural destinations. The findings demonstrate that the integration of tasting businesses into regional development strategies, supported by effective marketing, cross-sectoral cooperation, and sustainability principles, can significantly enhance the resilience and long-term development prospects of rural territories.
Copyright (c) 2026 Stanislav Chibukov, Dariia Aleksandrova, Hanna Sarkisian, Dmytro Tkachenko
DEVELOPMENT OF GASTRONOMIC TOURISM THROUGH MARKETING STRATEGIES FOR POSITIONING LOCAL PRODUCTS
Gastronomic tourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global tourism industry and an important driver of socio-economic development in regions. The study confirms its capacity to stimulate employment, support local producers, enhance infrastructure, and shape unique cultural identities of destinations. International experience demonstrates an uneven distribution of gastronomic tourism resources, with the highest concentration in Europe and Asia, where strong gastronomic brands and well-developed infrastructures have been established. Despite its relatively early stage of development, Ukraine possesses significant potential due to its diverse traditional cuisine, growing number of ethnic and gastronomic festivals, and increasing interest in local farm products. The research analyzes the role of marketing positioning strategies that increase product recognition and regional attractiveness. Special attention is given to event marketing as a tool for creating tourist experiences through festivals, tastings, and culinary events. Findings show that the integrated use of digital technologies, branding, and cross-sectoral cooperation is essential for the sustainable development of gastronomic tourism and strengthening the competitiveness of tourist destinations.
Copyright (c) 2026 Albina Britikova, Daria Tovarkova, Shepeleva Olga
STATUS AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF PEDAGOGICAL SPECIALISTS
Pedagogical specialists are the foundation of the education system and play a crucial role in building the personality, knowledge and values of adolescents. This paper aims to analyze the status, role and opportunities for professional development of teachers, principals and other pedagogical specialists. The consideration of this topic is extremely relevant, since the quality of education is directly dependent on the preparation, motivation and development of pedagogical specialists. Understanding their status and the prospects for professional improvement is a key condition for building an effective, modern and sustainable educational system.
CONCEPTUAL FOUNDATIONS OF FLEXIBLE CHANGE MANAGEMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF ENSURING SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF ENTERPRISES
The article substantiates the relevance of integrating flexible change management into the system of sustainable enterprise development in the context of global uncertainty, technological turbulence, and digital transformation of the economy. The study emphasizes that in the modern VUCA/BANI environment, where volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity dominate, the ability of organizations to adapt quickly and make informed decisions becomes a decisive factor for their survival and long-term growth. It is proved that adaptability, rapid response, teamwork, and adherence to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles are the key determinants of business resilience and strategic stability. The authors propose a conceptual synthesis of Agile, Lean, and Kaizen methodologies as a foundation for forming adaptive and sustainable enterprises. This approach enables the combination of innovation and flexibility with social responsibility and environmental consciousness. It is noted that effective transformation requires not only procedural and technological renewal but also responsible leadership and the implementation of the circular economy model aimed at resource efficiency and ecological balance. The research demonstrates that flexible change management acts both as a mechanism and a catalyst for achieving sustainable development in the digital economy. It ensures a dynamic balance between economic efficiency, social justice, and environmental safety, thus creating a modern management paradigm that integrates innovation, resilience, ethics, and sustainability. The conceptual model presented contributes to strengthening the competitive position of enterprises, improving their ability to recover from crises, and ensuring their long-term development in a constantly changing global environment.
Copyright (c) 2026 Karyna Poyarkova, Nazar Oleksandra
ORGANIZATION OF ACTIVITIES IN SCHOOL EDUCATION
The organization of activities in school education is a key factor for the effective functioning of the education system. In the modern conditions of a dynamic social, economic and technological environment, the school not only teaches knowledge, but also educates, develops skills and prepares students for active participation in society. The purpose of this paper is to study the main aspects of the organization of activities in school education, examining its regulatory basis, the structure of the educational process, management mechanisms and opportunities for student support and development.
Career guidance is an integral part of human resources management. It connects organizational goals with individual needs and creates conditions for long-term motivation and job satisfaction. This paper examines the theoretical foundations, stages and methods of career guidance and counseling, as well as their application in real organizational practice.
This paper aims to examine personnel training as a strategic tool for the development of organizations. The theoretical foundations of training, the main forms and methods, its role in the modern business context, as well as its influence on employee motivation and retention are analyzed. Specific examples from practice are also presented, demonstrating the importance of systematic training for organizational success. Personnel training is considered not simply as a management function, but as a key factor for sustainability, innovation and organizational culture in the 21st century.
GREEN JOBS: ANALYSIS AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES
This paper takes an in-depth look at green jobs. It begins with a detailed description of this type of jobs, highlighting its definition and objective, in order to clarify the starting point. It then examines the typologies and sectors involved in its development, the benefits and opportunities of the green jobs boom in its environment, as well as the strategies implemented in its economy to carry out its management and impact. To conclude, future expectations will be shown in the short to medium term and in the long term. It is relevant to mention that, as a tourism student, the importance of sustainability and environmentally friendly jobs in every tourist modality will be reflected on this work. The definitions and differences of terms (that are normally mistaken) such as ecotourism, sustainable tourism, green tourism, agrotourism and rural tourism will be determined. Summarizing, the aim of this project is to highlight the value of a model of market that, far from being in decline, is showing steady growth thanks to the efforts of various international organisations and experts and specialists that know how to make the most of all our natural resources.
Copyright (c) 2026 Isabel Dekiouk Cuesta
The green economy is one of the most significant and discussed concepts in the modern world. It should offer an alternative model of development in which economic growth is achieved through sustainable use of resources, environmental protection and social justice.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nina Pasheva - Nedyalkova
The concept of „risk“ has undergone a long historical evolution, reflecting the social and economic changes in the development of human civilization. From its perception as a matter of chance in ancient trade and navigation to its formation as a management category during the industrial era, risk has gradually become the subject of scientific analysis and quantitative measurement. In the 20th century, with the development of economic theory and financial instruments, risk management became institutionalized as part of strategic decision-making. In today's global economy, risk has become multifaceted - economic, financial, environmental, and technological - and requires an integrated approach. The report traces the main stages in the historical development of the concept of risk, emphasizing the role of innovation, digitalization, and sustainable financing in building modern models for risk management and prevention.
Copyright (c) 2026 Beatrisa Ilieva, Vesela Angelova