Andriana KOSTENKO (a SumDU vice rector) spoke in an interview with the Tribuna.Sumy periodical about the university’s work within the full-scale war, academic and community initiatives, international cooperation, support for residents of the Sumy Oblast, and her vision for the city future.

During the conversation, she emphasized the special role that SumDU plays for the city of Sumy: “Today, the university itself is a kind of indicator, the main sign of life. If the university remains in the city, teaches, and conducts research – it means our city continues to live”.

The interview paid special attention to the university’s research activities and international projects. In particular, it concerned a project under the Horizon Europe program with a total budget of 1.5 million euros. It is being implemented jointly with the University of Zurich, the University of Liverpool, and the University of Tartu.

“This project is not just about support; it is a mutual interest. For our European partners, SumDU is a true phenomenon: an institution in a frontline city that continues to enroll students, shows positive progress, and raises scientific publications. European researchers find this incredibly interesting, which is why they are eager to learn so many things from us,” said Andriana KOSTENKO.

She also underlined the importance of teamwork behind the implementation of university and community initiatives: “This is not a story about my own projects – it is always about projects by different teams. What I have truly managed to do is bring these teams together, organize them, and unite them around a common goal”.

Another important topic of discussion was mental health and availability of psychosocial support for Sumy residents.

“Everyone needs to realize that taking care of one’s mental health is just as much a part of a healthy lifestyle as taking care of one’s physical health,” noted Andriana KOSTENKO.

The article also covers activities of the SumDU Center for Social Research, work of the “Intellect of Sumy Region” civic organization, international research and humanitarian projects, support for communities, internships for young people, and development of innovative tools for community development.

You can read the full version of the interview via the link.