ОБРАЗОВАНИЕ БЕЗ ГРАНИЦИ: ДЕЙНОСТТА НА БЪЛГАРСКИТЕ НЕДЕЛНИ УЧИЛИЩА В УСЛОВИЯТА НА ВОЙНА В УКРАЙНА
EDUCATION WITHOUT BORDERS: THE ACTIVITIES OF BULGARIAN SUNDAY SCHOOLS DURING THE WAR IN UKRAINE

Summary/Abstract: The war in Ukraine has had a profound impact on the educational system, including Bulgarian Sunday schools, which traditionally play a crucial role in preserving the language, culture, and national identity of Bulgarian communities abroad. The armed conflict has led to significant challenges such as the displacement of students and teachers, limited access to educational resources, disruptions in the learning process due to power and internet outages, as well as psychological pressure on students and their families. This study aims to identify the challenges faced by students, teachers, and parents during the military conflict in Ukraine and its impact on the activities of Bulgarian Sunday schools. Based on collected data and case studies, the research seeks to propose effective strategies for adapting the educational process in crisis conditions. A special focus is placed on remote and hybrid learning methods, the role of digital technologies, the provision of psychological support, and the importance of international cooperation. By analyzing successful practices and identifying future challenges, this study offers guidelines for the sustainable development and support of Bulgarian Sunday schools in Ukraine in the long term. The research is based on qualitative and quantitative methods for analyzing the activities of Bulgarian Sunday schools in Ukraine in the context of the war. The approaches used include: Documentary analysis – reviewing official reports, regulatory documents, and educational policies related to the operation of Bulgarian Sunday schools abroad. Comparative analysis – studying successful practices from other countries to derive applicable strategies for Bulgarian Sunday schools. This study explores various strategies for continuing the educational process, including transitioning to remote and hybrid learning, using digital educational resources, developing digital libraries, and creating mobile learning applications. Additionally, emphasis is placed on the importance of psychological support for students who have been forced to leave their homes, as well as the role of Sunday schools as cultural and social centers that provide emotional stability to the Bulgarian diaspora in Ukraine and other affected regions. In conclusion, the study formulates specific recommendations for the long-term development and sustainability of Bulgarian Sunday schools under conditions of military conflict and instability. It highlights the need for more flexible educational models, greater access to electronic learning materials, and enhanced cooperation between Bulgarian institutions and international organizations to ensure quality education for Bulgarian communities abroad, regardless of the geopolitical situation.

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