From March 1, 2026, to March 21, 2026, 20 11th-grade students from the National High School of Commerce and Banking in Sofia, accompanied by two teachers, successfully completed a work-based learning placement in Reggio Emilia, Italy.
The mobility took place as part of the activities of the “Horizon” National Consortium for Improving the Quality of Vocational Education and Training in the fields of “Business Administration”, “Economics” and “Trade” coordinated by “Horizon ProConsult” EOOD. The project is numbered 2025-1-BG01-KA121-VET-000312650 and is funded under the “Erasmus+” program. The host organization was the long-standing Italian partner IFOM, which provided the professional training and handled the overall organization of the stay.
During the three-week internship, students majoring in “Business Administration”, “Economic Informatics” and “E-commerce” worked in a real-world business environment at the companies Scuderia Future Food Living Lab, Guest House Arletti, La Caramella Buona, Benedict School, Araraviaggi, and Younet Reggio Emilia. The practical training gave them the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world work environment, hone their professional skills, and develop their language proficiency, while also familiarizing themselves with best European practices in the fields of business, administration, marketing, and international trade.
During the internship, the participants demonstrated high motivation, professionalism, and a responsible attitude toward the tasks assigned to them. They successfully adapted to the work environment and actively participated in the daily activities of the host organizations. Thanks to their diligence and excellent preparation, the students made an exceptionally good impression on their employers. Representatives of the partner organizations described the Bulgarian students as some of the best interns they have ever hosted, and their achievements received public recognition through a feature in the local newspaper Reporter.
In addition to their professional internships, the participants took part in a rich cultural program that gave them the opportunity to visit some of Italy’s most beautiful cities – Venice and Parma. These cultural visits contributed to a deeper understanding of Italian history, culture, and traditions, transforming the mobility experience into a comprehensive educational and personal journey.
Participation in the international internship once again demonstrated the importance of the “Erasmus+” program for the development of young people’s professional, language, and social competencies. The practical experience gained, working in an international environment, and the exchange of best practices contribute to their future professional success and prepare them for the challenges of the modern European labor market.
*Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.