The Patent Office of the Republic of Bulgaria organized an interactive educational seminar titled “The Patent and You: Invent the World of Tomorrow,” held on October 14 in the hall of the Central Patent Library. The event was carried out in partnership with the European Patent Office and gathered 100 students from five STEM-oriented schools across the country.
The seminar was opened by the President of the Patent Office, Eng. Olya Dimitrova, who welcomed the participants and emphasized the importance of patent awareness, innovation, and legal protection of industrial property from an early age. She expressed her confidence that the later participation of a prominent inventor – Professor Tenio Popmintchev, a world-renowned laser physicist holding three U.S.-registered patents – would be not only inspiring but also an encouragement toward bold innovative thinking, curiosity, and a pursuit of knowledge.
In the first theoretical panel, experts from the Patent Office presented topics related to patents, utility models, industrial designs, and the possibilities for legal protection of inventions.
As an impressive example, the Bulgarian innovation company Antarta, specializing in the production of high-tech foods, including space food, was showcased, with the participation of Siyana Kolibarova, the company’s communication manager.
The second part of the seminar had a practical focus and allowed students to apply their newly gained knowledge. The interactive session began with an educational patent quiz, followed by participation in the first-ever hackathon organized by the Patent Office – “Innovations for Sustainable Development.” Students took on the role of young inventors seeking solutions to global challenges related to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, adopted in 2015 by 193 countries with a target year of 2030.
Our students from grades 9, 11, and 12 were presented with an exciting challenge – to propose a green, sustainable idea for commuting to school. They rose to the occasion brilliantly, presenting an innovative solution that transforms any regular bicycle into an electric bike. Their project involved in-depth research, well-grounded defense, and demonstrated creativity, knowledge, and enthusiasm.
Congratulations to all participants – you are the inspiration for a smarter and greener tomorrow!
