Stara Zagora, Bulgaria – In a remarkable display of solidarity and humanitarian outreach, professors and students from the Medical College of Trakia University in Stara Zagora participated in a charitable medical initiative in Albania.
Over two days, the medical team provided free health screenings for the Bulgarian community in the northern Albanian municipality of Kukës.
The initiative, organized by Trakia University’s rector, Prof. Dobri Yarkov, was led by the college director, Assoc. Prof. Pavlina Teneva.
According to the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA), the team conducted a variety of health checks, including bone density tests, clinical laboratory tests using rapid tests for cholesterol, uric acid, and blood sugar, and comprehensive eye examinations.
“It was a great pleasure for us to participate in this initiative organized by the rector of Trakia University, Prof. Dobri Yarkov, and to involve our students, making us useful to the Bulgarian community in Albania,” said Assoc. Prof. Teneva.
The screenings extended beyond routine health checks. Children in the community were also examined for spinal curvatures, a significant step towards early detection and treatment of potential health issues.
Over the course of the two days, nearly 300 patients received clinical examinations, including eye screenings. The initiative was held at the invitation of the Bulgarian Ambassador to Albania, His Excellency Ivaylo Kirov.
Many participants in the screenings reside in remote areas of the northern Albanian municipality, in villages where medical services are scarce or non-existent. The presence of the medical team from Trakia University was a welcome relief for these communities.
“The initiative provided a much-needed service to our fellow Bulgarians living in remote areas where access to healthcare is limited. The gratitude of the patients we examined was evident and heartwarming,” added Assoc. Prof. Teneva.
The Stara Zagora alma mater emphasized that this would not be the last initiative related to the Bulgarian diaspora in different countries.
The university is committed to continuing its outreach efforts, ensuring that Bulgarian communities abroad receive essential healthcare services and support.
According to the latest census in Albania, over 7,000 people identify as Bulgarians in the country. This initiative highlights the importance of maintaining strong ties with the Bulgarian diaspora and providing them with necessary services, regardless of their geographical location.
The charity initiative underscores Trakia University’s dedication to social responsibility and its proactive approach to involving students in meaningful, real-world experiences.
By participating in such initiatives, students gain valuable practical experience and an understanding of the significance of community service and humanitarian efforts.
As the medical team from Trakia University returns to Stara Zagora, their successful mission in Kukës stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the impact of compassionate healthcare.
The university’s commitment to future initiatives promises continued support and improved health outcomes for Bulgarian communities abroad.
This recent initiative serves as an inspiring example of how academic institutions can extend their expertise and resources beyond borders, fostering goodwill and making a tangible difference in the lives of people in need.
The efforts of Trakia University’s medical team in Albania are a shining beacon of hope and a reminder of the profound impact of community-centered healthcare services.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members