Official Meeting with the Delegation of Georgia State University

A meeting between representatives of Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University and a delegation from Georgia State University (GSU) took place to develop joint initiatives in the fields of education, science, and intercultural dialogue.

On March 17, 2024, representatives of Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, including the university’s rector, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor, and Corresponding Member of the National Academy of Pedagogical Sciences of Ukraine Olena KARAMAN; the First Vice-Rector Vitalii KURYLO; and the Director of the Institute of International Education, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor Iryna MYHOVYCH, met with a delegation from Georgia State University. Georgia State University was represented by Dr. John D. BUNTING, Principal Lecturer & Director of the Intensive English Program, Department of Applied Linguistics, Georgia State University; Ms. Robin V. CATHEY, Academic Professional, Associate Director of the Intensive English Program, Department of Applied Linguistics and ESL, Georgia State University; and other members of the delegation. The event was organized with the support and coordination of the Department of International Technical Assistance, Innovative Development, and External Relations of the Luhansk Regional State Administration. The Head of the Luhansk Regional State Administration, Artem Volodymyrovych LYSOHOR, was also present at the event.

The meeting marked an important step in strengthening international cooperation between the two universities, demonstrating not only solidarity and support for Ukraine during a challenging wartime period but also opening new opportunities for academic collaboration. It confirmed the willingness of the international community, particularly American partners, to support Ukrainian education and facilitate its integration into the global academic space. Notably, Georgia State University, ranked among the top 100 public research universities in the United States, has expressed interest in establishing a long-term partnership with Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University. This collaboration will create opportunities for joint educational programs, scientific research, experience exchange, and the implementation of innovative projects, contributing to the further development of both institutions and strengthening Ukrainian-American educational ties.

During the meeting, special attention was given to the necessity of signing a memorandum of cooperation, which will serve as the foundation for the further development of partnerships between the two leading universities. This document will formalize the parties’ commitment to jointly implementing educational and scientific projects, promoting academic exchange, and integrating into the international educational space.

Additionally, representatives of the Luhansk Regional State Administration presented preliminary versions of materials highlighting the activities of displaced higher education institutions in the Luhansk region. The presentation included both analytical data and video materials showcasing the achievements and challenges faced by the region’s universities due to relocation.

These materials are planned to be used in a photo exhibition set to take place in Atlanta with the support of Georgia State University. The exhibition aims to draw international attention to the need for supporting Ukrainian education and to emphasize the importance of university collaboration in fostering a global academic environment.