Cabinet Approves Nearly BGN 2 Mln for Social, Health Insurance of Pupils in Dual Training

The Cabinet Monday approved an additional BGN 1,916,215 for the compulsory social and health insurance of pupils participating in dual training programmes.

The funds will cover the compulsory social and health insurance contributions for up to 2,500 pupils in 11th and 12th grades who are working under work-based learning contracts.

In 2024, legislative amendments were introduced to provide support to employers who hire pupils for work-based learning. Under the amended Vocational Education and Training Act, the State fully covers the social and health insurance contributions for pupils employed under work-based learning contracts. The measure, which took effect on April 1, 2024, ensures that these contributions are paid from the budget of the Education and Science Ministry.