On the occasion of Students' Day, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with students and faculty of Mariupol State University, which resumed its operation in April 2022 based on the Kyiv National University of Construction and Architecture in Kyiv.
Before the full-scale Russian invasion, Mariupol University had around 5,000 students, including foreign students, and employed 500 teachers and other staff.
During his visit to the university, the Head of State was informed about the current situation at the university, including the ongoing renovations in its new premises, and discussed its development plans. Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited classrooms and the admissions office, where he left a motivational message for applicants and students. The President was also shown the university's cybersecurity laboratory.
Rector of Mariupol State University Mykola Trofymenko told the Head of the State that after the start of the Russian aggression, almost the entire material and technical base of the university was destroyed and looted. Eighteen students and teachers lost their lives, while information about over 250 people remains unknown. A portion of students and staff remained in Mariupol until March 15, enduring constant enemy shelling without access to water, food, or medical assistance.
The Rector of Mariupol State University also told Volodymyr Zelenskyy that after relocating to Kyiv, the university community decided to rebuild a modern institution of higher education with a new philosophy while preserving the university's identity. They aim to become "even more Mariupol-oriented," keeping the memory of the city's tragedy alive and serving as ambassadors of Mariupol in Ukraine and the world. Notably, the new symbol of the institution is a dove, associated with Freedom Square in Mariupol.
During the interaction with the students, the President said that he is pleased to be among the people of Mariupol today, who uphold the spirit of their university.
"It seems to me that your university is special. It is a space of knowledge, memory, and dignity, and what I read there – 'Unbreakable Campus' – I think it's about you. The campus of the 21st century is, in general, an approach to our state. You are the face of the student community in our country, the face of unyielding students," he said.
The young people inquired whether there would be an increase in scholarships for students. According to the Head of the State, the Ukrainian government has such a task, and possibilities for the relevant solution are being explored.
"As for scholarships, this is a task for the government. We discussed this with the Ministry. We will work to increase the volume of scholarships next year," Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Students also asked about simplifying the procedure for their travel abroad for education and internships to acquire new knowledge and skills. In response, the President emphasized the importance of avoiding factors that would create psychological tension between military personnel on the front lines and civilians. Therefore, regarding the issue of traveling abroad, in his opinion, a fair solution needs to be found.
"Specific programs for individuals of non-mobilization age, scientists for development, or acquiring knowledge needed for Ukraine... I believe that the Ministry should work on and enable you to bring this knowledge to Ukraine," the Head of the State said.
Responding to students' questions about incentives for Ukrainians, especially young people, to return from abroad, Volodymyr Zelenskyy noted that, first and foremost, issues of security and creating new jobs with decent working conditions are crucial. He said that the state is currently working on these aspects.
On his part, Minister of Education and Science Oksen Lisovyi added that a significant incentive for the return of youth to Ukraine should also be the improvement of the quality of education. Work is already underway on several specific measures, including enhancing the autonomy of higher education institutions, expanding the rights and opportunities of students, and maintaining control over the quality of the educational process and curriculum.
The President wished the students and faculty of Mariupol State University to bring the newly created space in Kyiv back to their hometown in the future.
"You can change walls, but you certainly cannot change your nature, your state. They couldn't and won't be able to destroy you. And they won't be able to defeat us either. Yes, it's not easy. But who promised that it would be easy? But victory will come for sure, and it will remain in history. I wish you victory! Glory to Ukraine!" the Head of the State said at the close of the meeting.
