On January 13, Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy launched a series of events dedicated to the awarding of master’s degree diplomas.

The first to receive their higher education diplomas were graduates of the Educational-Scientific Institute of International Relations, History and Philosophy, the Educational-Scientific Institute of Informational and Educational Technologies, as well as the Department of Computing Engineering, Intellectual and Management Systems.

Despite the challenges of wartime, the university continues to fulfil its mission – to train the intellectual elite of the country. This year, 781 specialists are being awarded master’s degrees across 42 educational programmes.

The event began with a mandatory safety briefing, and the opening moments of the ceremony were dedicated to those thanks to whom this celebration became possible. Those present honoured the memory of the heroes who lost their lives in the Russian-Ukrainian war with a minute of silence and the performance of the National Anthem of Ukraine.

Diplomas for graduates of the Educational-Scientific Institute of International Relations, History and Philosophy were presented by First Vice-Rector Vasyl Moisiienko. In his welcoming speech, he emphasised the importance of training professionals for the country’s post-war recovery:

“Today we are graduating specialists across 42 master’s programmes. You are the resource that will shape the new history of Ukraine in science, education, and culture,” Vasyl Mykolaiovych emphasised. “This year is special, as we continue our work under conditions of aggression, despite blackouts and shelling. The successful accreditation of virtually all master’s programmes testifies to the quality of our education.”

Vasyl Moisiienko also recalled the traditions of the institute, mentioning distinguished alumni – from scientists and the winner of the international teaching competition Andrii Stetsiuk, to legendary combat commanders, such as Petro Horbatenko and Mykyta Nadtochii.

“Unfortunately, among the 50 university alumni who have fallen in the war, ten were graduates of this particular unit, and this is one of the most tragic pages in the history of the university,” noted Vasyl Mykolaiovych.

Congratulations were also extended by Institute Director Andrii Kasian and Head of the Department of History of Ukraine Vitalii Masnenko, who expressed gratitude to lecturers and parents for their support of the young professionals.

The symbolic relay of congratulations for future IT specialists and engineers was taken up by Vice-Rector for Scientific, Innovation, and International Activities Oleksandr Spriahailo. Presenting diplomas to graduates of the Educational-Scientific Institute of Informational and Educational Technologies and the Department of Computing Engineering, Intellectual and Management Systems, he remarked that technologies are becoming the decisive factor in achieving victory today:

“In wartime, knowledge ceases to be an abstract concept – it becomes a practical tool for resilience and progress. Technology is not just equipment; it is people who bring victory closer with their intellect,” Oleksandr Vasyliovych said.

He drew a parallel with the outstanding mathematician Alan Turing, who, without holding a weapon in his hands, saved millions of lives through the power of his mind. Oleksandr Vasyliovych encouraged graduates to never stop in their professional development.

Graduates also received words of encouragement from Dean of the Department of Computing Engineering, Intellectual and Management Systems Borys Onyshchenko and Director of the Educational-Scientific Institute of Informational and Educational Technologies Anna Tkachenko, who wished the young professionals successful realisation of their professional aspirations.

A special festive atmosphere was set by the university’s creative groups. The music arts studio “VOICES” performed several patriotic compositions, while the amateur folk dance ensemble “Cherkashchanka” delighted guests with a lively dance performance.

“Today’s graduates studied under difficult conditions – during the COVID-19 pandemic and the full-scale war. However, such challenges temper people, make them stronger and more resilient. Earning a master’s degree is an achievement not only for the student but also for their family, the university community, and the state.

The university staff worked to ensure an uninterrupted educational process and the highest level of comfort possible under our circumstances. Lecturers invested their scholarly potential and pedagogical talent in training master’s students. Many graduates are already working in their fields, demonstrating professionalism and dedication to their chosen professions. They are patriots of their country and, I hope, of Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy. I believe that they will remain lifelong members of the university community.

Dear graduates! I wish you to find your vocation, happiness in your families, and joy in what you do.

Godspeed to you in a peaceful, independent Ukraine!” said Oleksandr Cherevko, President and Acting Rector.

Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy is proud of its graduates and wishes them professional growth and ambitious achievements under the free Ukrainian sky!

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Press Office of Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy