October 02

Vasil Aprilov was a Bulgarian educator born in 1789 who became a leading figure in the Bulgarian National Revival. After establishing himself as a prosperous merchant in Odessa, he turned his attention to improving education for his compatriots. Aprilov provided financial support and textbooks to found the first secular Bulgarian school in his hometown of Gabrovo in 1835. He authored influential works that promoted literacy and cultural awakening among Bulgarians under Ottoman rule. His efforts laid the groundwork for the spread of modern education and national consciousness. Aprilov's legacy lives on in Bulgarian schools and cultural institutions that honor his name.