Obligatory matriculation exams, expected to be held for the first time by Bulgaria's high school students in 2008, will not be accepted as entry to Sofia's University St. Kliment Ohridski.

The decision was announced by Ivan Ilchev, the newly elected president of Bulgaria's oldest and biggest university in his first interview after the university elections on Wednesday.

"Matriculations cannot replace entry exams, until a national assessment center guarantees objectivity", said the former history department dean.

High-school students have staged regular protests against the obligatory matriculation exams introduced by the Ministry of Education.

The students have said they are not adequately prepared for passing such exams because of the current school program.

They stand against the introduction of the obligatory matriculations also because they believe this way the graduating students are deprived from equal opportunities.

"Obligatory matriculations are unneeded, subjective and are not a relevant way to assess students' knowledge and abilities," students said at a press conference aimed at attracting the public attention on the issue a month ago.

The new President of Sofia University hinted he did not approve the test as the university aims at attracting bright young people, not only crammers.

According to Ilchev's election program the university is to open branches in neighboring countries.

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