The workers of Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University actively support the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the Russian-Ukrainian war. Recently, employees and students of the University formed an aid for Ukrainian defenders, and Rector Anatolii Tsos personally took it at the front line. This is a blitz interview with the rector of Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University − about the results of the trip.
− Anatolii Vasyliovych, you have returned recently from the front line. The trip turned out to be surprisingly productive. You managed to deliver humanitarian aid to our soldiers, sign a cooperation agreement, and communicate with the Heroes. Please summarize briefly the results of this trip.
− The main thing is that we have brought humanitarian aid to the soldiers. In particular, we have handed basic necessities and devices for military affairs. I do hope that we manage to make a small contribution and approach the Great Victory. And this is the most important thing.
I would like to note that effective cooperation is being established between the University and Prince Roman the Great 14th separate mechanized brigade. During the trip, a memorandum of cooperation was signed. The main directions of cooperative activity in the sphere of education, upbringing, training, science, and social activities under this Memorandum were outlined. We are ready for further cooperation, using the powerful scientific and pedagogical potential of the University.
− In addition to military and non-military aid, our Heroes, for sure, also need moral support. Did you feel it during the trip?
− You are right. Care is very important for every person. And it is simply necessary for soldiers in combat conditions. Our Heroes should feel that they are not alone with the enemy, that we are proud of them and waiting for them.
− You often emphasized that the main task of the University is to provide high-quality education, to teach students. Today it can be argued that in conditions of war, one more important point is added to this task: higher education institutions must give as much support to our Armed Forces as possible.
− In the conditions of war, the main task of all Ukrainians, organizations, and institutions is to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine, because the existence of Ukraine and its sovereignty depend on this support. Therefore, universities should give as much promotion and help to the army as possible in a variety of ways. Of course, the educational process is mandatory. It shows that the country is alive, has a future and, despite the war and threats, we believe in our victory.
− I remember when we were loading humanitarian aid into the car, there were not only the University Emblem on the boxes, but also other organizations were indicated on them. Whom would you like to thank for help in cargo forming?
− First of all, I want to thank the students, teachers and employees of the University who helped to form MREs and other assistance. I also want to thank them for raised funds. As a result we bought a good weather station and handed it to the Armed Forces. The brigade commander award is a great honor and recognition of the effective work of the team of our glorious University. In addition, we are grateful to the Institute of Literary Studies of Polish Academy of Sciences. Polish partners gave us a weather station and two tablets. French partners − humanitarian association AESAlsace − also joined the process of providing help. Part of this humanitarian aid was sent to the frontline, and another part was given to the displaced persons. Ukraine will win only by joining efforts!
Interviewed by Andriy Moshkun
