On November 26, 2024, in Sofia, a contest for Breeder and Inventor of the Year 2024 was held, organized by the Union of Inventors in Bulgaria.

Three breeders from the Agricultural Academy – Institute of Field Crops in Chirpan and the Maize Research Institute – Knezha were awarded.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Georgi Yordanov, the leading breeder at the Maize Research Institute – Knezha, was honored for developing three maize hybrids in 2024: a sweet corn hybrid, a popping corn hybrid, and a grain and silage hybrid. The prestigious award was presented personally by Prof. Loukipudis at the official ceremony.

The management of the Institute thanks Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yordanov for his contribution to Bulgarian maize breeding as the author of eight hybrids with a significant market share, and wishes him good health and continued success as an undisputed professional and outstanding breeder.

We congratulate all the awarded breeders and wish them many more creative achievements.