On Vyshyvanka Day and as part of the “Ukrainian language, culture and history” course – developed for representatives of the E³UDRES² European University Alliance within the framework of the associated partnership with Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy – a thematic session on Ukrainian culture was held.

During the meeting, participants discussed the Ukrainian vyshyvanka (an embroidered shirt), which is not merely an element of national clothing but a living history of Ukraine encoded in patterns and colours, with each ornament carrying its own meaning, ranging from protective symbols to wishes for happiness and prosperity.

The author of the course, Associate Professor of the Department of World History and International Relations at Bohdan Khmelnytsky National University of Cherkasy, Anzhela Irzhavska, told the international participants about the origins and regional characteristics of Ukrainian embroidery; how colours and patterns reflect worldview and traditions; and why the vyshyvanka has become a symbol of unity and national dignity.

The lecturer also demonstrated an authentic vyshyvanka of great personal and emotional value to her, which her grandmother had sewn and embroidered by hand.

The course participants, María Campuzano López (Erasmus+ Institutional Coordinator at Hochschule Fulda – University of Applied Sciences, Germany) and João Tiago Carvalho Soromenho (Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal, Portugal), showed great interest in Ukrainian cultural traditions, admired the resilience and unity of Ukrainians during these difficult times, and expressed strong support for the Ukrainian people in their struggle for freedom, independence, and sovereignty.

The Educational-Scientific Institute of International Relations, History and Philosophy