Thriving Amidst Chaos: How a Ukrainian University is Transforming Education During Wartime

In the city of Zhytomyr, west of Kyiv, one institution stands out: Zhytomyr Polytechnic State University. This school has not only survived but is thriving, even during tough times.

Zhytomyr has a special history. It briefly served as the capital of the Ukrainian People’s Republic during Ukraine’s fight for independence between 1917 and 1920. Today, the university, led by Rector Viktor Yevdokymov, has transformed itself in interesting ways.

Yevdokymov points out a harsh reality: Ukraine has over 200 universities, but the war and shifting demographics mean fewer young people are applying. “We can’t sustain so many universities,” he says. The recent government changes allow younger men to travel abroad but may not change the fact that many students have left the country.

He believes in consolidating universities to create stronger institutions. According to him, adapting to these challenges requires bold leadership. Observers echo this sentiment, noting that while many universities struggle, some, like Zhytomyr Polytechnic, have shown resilience and adaptability.

Support from Business

Zhytomyr Polytechnic’s progress is linked to the support of local businessman Hennadiy Butkevych. He has funded initiatives and programs to revitalize the university’s connection to local industries. His investments also extend beyond academics; he revived the local football club, Polissya Zhytomyr, which has become a symbol of community strength.

Butkevych sees his support as vital for Ukraine’s growth. “We are forging a partnership between business and education,” he remarked. This kind of collaboration is essential, especially during the current war.

Innovation in Wartime

Inside the university, innovation is alive and well. Oksana Chernysh, the director of the Research Institute of Medical Technologies, shares that they’ve launched several startups. One was a smart training device developed for the football club, which tracks players’ performance.

The university encourages students to be hands-on and creative. Associate Professor Oleksandr Dobrzhanskyi highlights the importance of freedom and initiative. “Students are spending extra hours in labs, excited to develop their ideas,” he notes.

Moreover, in June, a significant step was taken when Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister, announced a framework to connect universities and businesses for innovation hubs. Zhytomyr Polytechnic is among the first to pilot this initiative, focusing on energy solutions and technologies that can aid the war effort.

Support for Veterans

One of the university’s key missions is supporting veterans, especially as many return from conflict with psychological challenges. Andrii Brodskyi, who leads the Center for Veteran Development, stresses the importance of recognizing PTSD in Ukraine. He advocates for mandatory psychological assessments for all returning soldiers.

Nataliia Kharitonova, head of the university’s PsyLab, also emphasizes the need for rehabilitation programs, especially for soldiers freed from captivity. Healing is a long process, and veterans must understand it takes time.

Looking Ahead

Zhytomyr Polytechnic is also expanding into vital fields like biomedical engineering, despite the challenges. Vice-Rector Olena Denysiuk notes there’s a growing demand for these specialists, even if the number of students admitted remains small.

Experts, including Douglas Davis from the Medical College of Wisconsin, praise Yevdokymov’s innovative approach. Davis believes the university’s efforts can significantly benefit Ukraine’s future, especially in advancing technology tied to the war.

In summary, Zhytomyr Polytechnic is more than just an educational institution. It’s a hub for innovation, community support, and resilience in the face of adversity, building a hopeful future for its students and the nation.

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