The second stage of the XVI International Taras Shevchenko Language and Literature Contest was held at Sumy State University. Students of professional pre-higher education institutions, as well as applicants for higher education in humanitarian and non-humanitarian specialties, participated.

Holding the contest at SumDU has already become a tradition. The university honors the legacy of the Great Kobzar and continues to support development of the Ukrainian language, for which Shevchenko fought. Such projects instill in young people pride in their country, love for their native language, inspire them to learn its beauty and develop their own creative potential.

“You are already the winners – the hope of our country, ambassadors of the Ukrainian language. Our language is unique, and Shevchenko’s word shaped our identity and continues to unite Ukrainians in the most important and difficult moments of history. Language matters – and we especially felt it during a full-scale war,” – said Vasyl KARPUSHA (SumDU rector) in his welcoming speech.

The jury head Volodymyr SADIVNYCHYI (head of the Department of Journalism and Philology) emphasized that the tradition of holding the contest is an important part of preserving cultural and historical roots:

“We are glad to meet you every year at SumDU. The contest, dedicated to the person who put his word on the guard of each of us, is primarily about our historical memory. We must always remember who we are and whose children we are. On this foundation, we can move forward and build a state on our own land”.

Viktoriia HROBOVA (director of the Department of Education and Science of Sumy Regional State Administration) also joined the congratulations. After the grand opening, participants began writing the contest papers. The second stage winners will represent Sumy Oblast at the all-Ukrainian level.

SumDU annually supports initiatives to popularize the Ukrainian language and literature. It also creates opportunities for development of talented youth.