On 24 April 2026, Mykola TROFYMENKO (Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine) visited SumDU.

The guest familiarized himself with university’s material and technical resources, particularly its scientific infrastructure and educational environment. He visited the Center for Shared Use of Scientific Equipment, as well as the Department of Applied Hydro-Aeromechanics, where he was presented with unique research and projects by SumDU scientists.

A separate part of the visit was a tour of the buildings damaged by enemy shelling. Together with the acting rector, first vice rector Inna SHKOLNYK and the newly elected rector Vasyl KARPUSHA, the official discussed strategy for restoration and further modernization of educational infrastructure.

Mykola TROFYMENKO noted the university’s high level of resilience and development amid the war, particularly highlighting its achievements in scientific research:

“Today, Ukrainian higher education institutions are demonstrating a resilience that the world admires. It is precisely this resilience that allows them to achieve significant results. SumDU has strong achievements and prospects for development. It has been accredited in five scientific fields with the highest ratings – it is the only institution in Ukraine with such a level of scientific research. And that is impressive!” – emphasized the Deputy Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine.

The official met with representatives of higher education institutions, local authorities, and business community. The main focus was on results and prospects of dual education and expanding student participation in regional development. This format, which combines study with practical work, promotes professional development of young people and motivates them to build careers in Ukraine.

Participants outlined strategies for engaging employers in creation of modern educational programs and development of mentoring and internship programs. Particular emphasis was placed on training of specialists and actual needs of the regional labor market.

During an open dialogue with student leaders from Sumy Oblast, issues such as academic mobility and creation of a safe and inclusive educational environment were raised.

The Deputy Minister emphasized importance of supporting institutions in frontline regions and ensuring young people’s access to quality education regardless of their location.

“Last year, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine allocated 330 million hryvnias to support such institutions. In addition, this year’s admission rules provide for all necessary mechanisms to ensure that every applicant has an opportunity to enroll in Ukrainian universities by taking advantage of the relevant benefits. In this way, the state is consistently working to ensure the stable and balanced functioning of the higher education system,” – concluded Mykola TROFYMENKO.