On 16 May, the Aula of Veliko Tarnovo University once again became a stage for talent, knowledge, and love for Chinese culture
On 16 May 2026, the Aula of Veliko Tarnovo University “St. Cyril and St. Methodius” once again became a stage for talent, knowledge, and inspiration during the Bulgarian national round of the 6th International Chinese Language Competition “Chinese Bridge” for primary school students.
A total of 18 students from schools in Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Svishtov, Shumen, Varna, Chelopech, and Pernik took part in the prestigious competition. The participants demonstrated remarkable knowledge of the Chinese language, as well as impressive skills related to Chinese culture and traditions.
Among the official guests attending the event were Assoc. Prof. Polina Tsoncheva, PhD – Dean of the Faculty of Modern Languages at UVT and Head of the Department of Classical and Eastern Languages and Cultures; Prof. Plamen Legkustop, DSc – Rector of VTU (2007–2015) and Honorary Chair of the BoA of the Confucius Institute at UVT; Ms. Aksiniya Koleva – Director of the Confucius Institute Sofia; Assoc. Prof. Iskra Mandova, PhD and Prof. Dong Yuanxing – Directors of the Confucius Institute at UVT; Ms. Olga Yalamova – Principal of the Private Secondary School “Evlogi and Hristo Georgievi” in Sofia; and Dr. Reni Stoyanova – Vice Principal of “Vasil Levski” Secondary School in Ruse.
During the competition, the children presented a variety of artistic performances, including storytelling and recitations in Chinese, kung fu, acrobatics, calligraphy, musical performances, songs in Chinese, and traditional Chinese dances, demonstrating talent, dedication, and exceptional artistry.
First place was awarded to Maria Ilieva from “P. R. Slaveykov” Primary School in Veliko Tarnovo, who impressed the jury with her speech in Chinese and later demonstrated excellent kung fu and acrobatic skills in the second round. Maria studies Chinese in her free time and attends specialized language courses.
Second place was shared by Mihaela Mileva and Yasen Petrov from the Private Secondary School “Evlogi and Hristo Georgievi” in Sofia.
Third prize was awarded to Nikoleta Yordanova from the Second Primary School “Dr. Petar Beron” in Shumen, as well as Nikola Dimitrov, Daria Mihova, Yoan Kamenov, and Maksim Yovev from the Private Secondary School “Evlogi and Hristo Georgievi” in Sofia.