Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Olena Kovalska met with Dr. Vilma Elisa Fuentes, Program Director for the Ukraine Task Force at Florida State University, to discuss establishing veteran hubs – centers on the basis of Ukrainian vocational colleges.
“We all owe an immeasurable debt to our veterans. These are Ukrainians who risked their lives, lost their health, and, in some cases, limbs, sight, or hearing so that we could live in a free country. For us, it’s vital to do everything possible to repay this debt,” said Olena Kovalska.
One step in this direction is the establishment of veteran hubs at vocational colleges. There are already ten such centers, with five more planned.
Olena Kovalska also expressed her gratitude to Vilma Elisa Fuentes for supporting programs that allow Ukrainian college leaders to study the American experience, particularly in creating conditions for veterans’ adaptation and education at Florida colleges.
“In this challenging time for our country, any support from our international friends and partners is invaluable, including your assistance in creating veteran development centers at Ukrainian vocational colleges,” said the Deputy Head of the Presidential Office.
According to Olena Kovalska, in the U.S., universities and colleges have largely assumed responsibilities for helping military personnel reintegrate into civilian life and acquire new professions. In Ukraine, veteran development centers on the basis of vocational institutions perform even broader functions. In addition to providing opportunities for new professional training, these centers unite veterans, provide employment assistance, psychological and other support to them and their families.