Background:
Demography gives information to measure the welfare levels of the communities. Analysis of demographic data is a prerequisite for making forecasts that should underpin responsible societal policies, including education. On the other hand, sustainable strategic actions in education could be strong drivers for positive population trajectories.
The report aims to analyze the demographic trends from the Burgas region (BsR), and Bulgaria (BG) in relation to the local educational policies. The research ambition is to generate evidence that education is a strong determinant of positive population trends. This report is a natural continuation of a scientific review presented during the INTED2022.

Materials and methods:
The tools of demographic data analysis were applied using the National Statistical Institute database. A purposeful content analysis of BsR educational projects for the last 15 years was undergone (www.burgas.bg).

Results of the research are framed in two sections presenting the interrelated demographic and educational developments in BsR.

Demographic trends of Bulgaria and Burgas Region:
Burgas is situated on the Black Sea and is the fourth-largest town in BG. In many ways, the demographic profile of BsR resembles the national one with low fertility rates, high death rates and aging of the population. However, the 30-year national trends of external migration are gradually slowing down in the BsR and the population proportion above the age of 15 is growing (14.9% in 2023). There have been notable internal and return migration flows toward BsR, еspecially the town of Burgas is attracting the younger generations. Traditionally, Bulgaria is a country of emigration, but there has been a rise in immigration regarding the BsR, particularly from non-EU states such as Ukraine and other neighboring countries. As a result, in BG the BsR ranks second in population growth of 1.5% in 2023. Compared to the national average, in terms of natural population growth indicators, BsR stands out with a more favorable demographic situation.
The local policy initiatives aimed at fostering positive demographic trends are multidimensional. The Regional Demographic Plan, extending to 2030, has outlined the necessary actions. Key educational drivers have been identified. In this context, the Burgas municipality has been pioneering a distinctive educational project, alongside other education-related initiatives, which are presented here.

Educational developments in the Burgas Community:
In 2019, as a part of the "First-Class Start" project, all first-grade classrooms were renovated and equipped with modern technology. Simultaneously, the teachers received training to use continuously updated educational software. The methodology integrates leading European and national practices in interactive teaching, focusing on 21st-century skills development. Classroom environments have been enhanced, ensuring equal opportunities for urban and rural students, as well as Ukrainian children enrolling in BsR schools.
Other developments include the first newly built primary school in the country since 1989 and the Municipality Art Centre and Library which was opened in 2021.

Conclusions:
The BsR demographic landscape is shaped by complex social policies including more than 15 years of investing in education. The educational strategies of the local government to develop the BsR as “a model for a demographic national restart” have proven to be sustainable.

Keywords: Burgas, education, demography, Bulgaria, public health, 21 Century skills.