IECC chair highlights role of education in preserving Ukrainian identity at national conference

Lyuba Lyubchyk, who chairs the UWC’s International Educational Coordinating Council (IECC), delivered a keynote address at a national conference dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the Yurii Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University. 

The event also honored the bright memory and legacy of Professor Ivan Rusnak.

The discussions focused on the evolving landscape of primary education amidst global and national transformations, emphasizing both the challenges and opportunities, and emerging opportunities in the field. 

In her presentation, titled “Ukrainians Worldwide: Shaping a Ukrainian-Language Educational Space, Preserving Identity, and Fostering National Consciousness,” Lyubchyk offered insights into the current state of Ukrainian education within the global diaspora. 

“I briefly outlined the state of Ukrainian education in the diaspora, highlighting not only the educational challenges but also the search for new opportunities and effective mechanisms to advance Ukrainian schooling worldwide during these challenging times,” she said.

In her speech, Lyubchyk also stressed the “invaluable role and nation-building mission of Ukrainian teachers abroad, who, often working voluntarily and in inadequate conditions, understand the importance of developing and preserving Ukrainian identity and expanding the Ukrainian-language educational space.”

She also extended appreciation to Svitlana Romaniuk for her significant contributions in establishing ties between Ukraine and its global diaspora, fostering cooperation and mutual support.