We have published a concept for the alternative program "Virtues and Ethics". This concept aims to illustrate our overall vision for the subject, which we propose to include in the mandatory curriculum. We are presenting only this program, because for the other two programs - "Religion and Orthodox Christianity" and "Religion and Islam", we will rely on the existing programs. This document is only a basis for discussion, the program is still being developed, the vision will be finalized. But we want to publish this document and rely on something like a text on which to conduct debates. This was stated by the Minister of Education and Science Krasimir Valchev at a briefing.
"The subject will not lead to additional workload. The additional hour will be introduced in stages. It will be part of the total number of hours for students," added Minister Valchev.
Religion will not be mandatory. There is a term mandatory elective part - it is mandatory, but within this hour there is an opportunity to choose. The choice will be between programs. The goal of this hour is to strengthen the educational function in Bulgarian schools and especially the education in goodness and virtues, added the Minister of Education.
In the program "Virtues and Ethics" we have stepped on the experience of other countries, of Bulgarian schools that have a similar program. We have stepped on what we believe children should acquire as attitudes towards the world, he added.
Valchev noted that the subject will not be taught by priests, but by teachers who have acquired qualifications at universities.