First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska held a meeting with Mikuláš Bek, Minister of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic, as well as with the rectors of Charles University, Palacký University, the vice-rector of Masaryk University, the vice-rector of the University of Hradec Králové, deans of relevant faculties, and heads of Ukrainian Studies departments.
“We deeply value your support for Ukrainian pupils, students, and education. Ukrainians remain the largest group of foreign pupils in the country. The Association of Ukrainian Studies Scholars operates in Czechia. Charles University and Masaryk University offer bachelor's and master's degree programs with a specialization in Ukrainian Studies, while Palacký University offers a bachelor's degree in Ukrainian Philology. Czech universities have created over 200 positions for Ukrainian researchers, enabling them to continue their academic work and teaching,” said Olena Zelenska.
With the First Lady's participation, important documents were signed as part of the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies. Charles University (Prague) and the University of Hradec Králové signed memorandums of cooperation. Meanwhile, Masaryk University (Brno) and Palacký University (Olomouc) signed letters of intent, confirming their plans to join the coalition.
“The Coalition is a global initiative to advance Ukrainian Studies in academic institutions around the world, and to promote objective and comprehensive knowledge about Ukraine – free from fakes and imperial distortions. Truth and collaboration are what make all participants stronger,” emphasized Olena Zelenska.
