On November 6, 2024, a series of impactful events unfolded at the Central Ukrainian National Technical University in Kropyvnytskyi, Ukraine, as part of our ongoing initiative to strengthen resilience in higher education. Representing our project, Nataliia Versal led discussions with students and faculty on resilience in the university context, focusing on strategies and examples from Mendel University. These sessions offered valuable insights into how academic institutions can adapt and thrive in challenging times. Attendees explored practical approaches for promoting resilience within their own academic and professional environments, while also analyzing broader strategies that universities can implement to contribute to sustainable development.
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to understanding how universities can support the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The conversation addressed the unique role that academic institutions play in promoting resilience and sustainable growth, especially in times of crisis and conflict. Participants shared perspectives on how universities in Ukraine, amid the current war, have responded to unprecedented challenges by innovating their approaches to education, community engagement, and institutional support.
The next phase of our project will involve the co-authorship of a comprehensive monograph dedicated to sustaining university resilience in wartime. This publication aims to share best practices, innovative solutions, and key lessons learned from the experiences of participating institutions. By contributing to a deeper understanding of resilience in education, this monograph will serve as a valuable resource for universities worldwide seeking to build resilience in uncertain times.