In Ukraine, these challenges are especially real. Our experience shows not only how difficult it is to keep education going during a crisis, but also how much universities can adapt and lead.
Main Challenges
- War and Displacement – The Russian invasion forced many universities to relocate, move online, and support staff and students under extreme stress.
- Limited Resources – Budget cuts and uncertainty affect salaries, infrastructure, and research — especially in public universities.
- Losing People – Many academics and students have left the country. Bringing them back or keeping them connected is essential.
- Digital Gaps – Moving online was fast, but not always smooth. Now we must rethink what digital education really means and how to make it work long-term.
How We Respond
At the Kyiv School of Economics, we’ve learned to stay flexible. We restructured quickly, sought international funding, and leaned on our network of partners. We invest in our people — giving faculty and students support, mental health care, and a reason to stay. We also focus on staying relevant: offering courses that help students navigate today’s world, not yesterday’s.
We built shelters and work on campus extension. Number of students increased from 400 to 1500, due to the increase of programs. We launched school of engineering pivoting to new strategic directions.
Why Alliances Matter
University alliances have been a lifeline. The Alliance of Ukrainian Universities, as well as CIVICA and others, offer more than solidarity. They allow us to share ideas, run joint programs, and speak with one voice when we push for support — in Ukraine and abroad.
This is not just a time of risk, but also of responsibility. Universities are anchors in society. If we lead with clarity and empathy — and if we work together — we can help shape a better future, even in times of deep uncertainty.
