A meeting between students and the third President of Ukraine, Viktor Yushchenko, took place at Vasyl Stefanyk Carpathian National University. This event became a platform for open dialogue about the role of youth in shaping the state.
The university consistently creates opportunities for live communication with people who influenced historical processes in Ukraine, so that students can not only hear diverse experiences but also ask questions, critically reflect on the answers, and form their own responsible positions regarding the future of the country.
The attendees were greeted by the university rector, Valentyna Yakubiv, who noted that such meetings are extremely important for the formation of a conscious, responsible generation of young people who can participate in state-building processes, think strategically, and act in the interests of society.
“We have a unique opportunity to see and personally communicate with a person who made a significant contribution to the formation and establishment of Ukrainian statehood. Many of us knew Viktor Andriyovych Yushchenko from television screens or from the pages of history textbooks, but today we have the opportunity to meet him in person. This is a leader who was at the centre of the formation of the European vector of development of our state, and his role in these processes is extremely important. I sincerely thank Viktor Andriyovych for this visit to our university,” the rector noted.
Also, the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the VSCNU, Dmytro Romanyuk, addressed the students, professors and employees of the university, emphasising that the institution has a unique opportunity to communicate with a historical figure – a statesman who made a significant contribution to the formation of Ukraine as a European, culturally and linguistically distinct nation. He emphasised that the results of these efforts are tangible today and also noted the interest and unity around important values and ideas of statesmanship.
Viktor Yushchenko began the meeting by arguing that today’s youth have a unique chance to realise the dream of previous generations and possess much greater opportunities and a deeper understanding of their own history and identity. He emphasised that the younger generation is the best the Ukrainian nation has to offer, as it has inherited a richer cultural and historical memory, free of distorted imperial narratives.
Yushchenko also noted that every person is unique, and that it is the youth that determines the country’s future, concluding with a thought close to Vasyl Symonenko’s words on human uniqueness.
The politician outlined the key stages in the formation of Ukrainian statehood, emphasised the role of national identity and the importance of preserving historical memory. He emphasised that youth are the driving force of change in public administration, the economy, and society.
Separately, the responsibility of citizens for the country’s future, the need for an active stance, critical thinking, and initiative were discussed. The importance of education and support for Ukrainian culture, language, and spiritual values in a globalised world was also emphasised.
The meeting discussed the challenges facing Ukraine today, including issues of European development, national security, and the role of the younger generation in these processes. Viktor Yushchenko emphasised that Ukraine’s future success depends on young people’s ability to think independently, act responsibly, and unite around common values.
The event was held as an open dialogue. During it, participants had the opportunity to join in the discussion of important social issues, including the role of youth in public life, the development of initiative, motivation for active participation, and responsibility for the future of Ukraine.
Students actively asked questions and shared their own thoughts.
This meeting was an important component of strengthening our brand, which combines academic traditions, modern approaches, and social responsibility. It was aimed at strengthening intergenerational dialogue and building a common understanding of the strategic challenges and opportunities for Ukraine’s development.
