4 Horizontal Priorities of the University ‘Ukraine’
UNIVERSITY “UKRAINE”
Inclusion and diversity
Environment and fight against climate change
Digital transformation
Participation in democratic life, common values, and civic engagement
University "Ukraine" is the only higher education institution in Ukraine of integrated type, open to young people of different levels of training, differentiated social opportunities and different health conditions. This is directly stated in the Statute of the University.
University "Ukraine" consciously has been undertaking for more than 25 years the mission of teaching people with special educational needs. This is our uniqueness. That’s why the University “Ukraine” has taken several steps to ENSURE INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY priority:
- 1. Diversity and Inclusion Policy:
- The University “Ukraine” established a comprehensive diversity and inclusion policy that reflects its commitment to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all members of the campus community.
- 2. Department of Inclusive policy:
- The University “Ukraine” established a dedicated Department of Inclusive policy responsible for developing, implementing, and overseeing diversity and inclusion initiatives.
- 3. Campus-wide Training:
- The University “Ukraine” Implements mandatory diversity and inclusion training for faculty, staff, and students to raise awareness, foster understanding, and promote inclusive behavior.
- 4. Recruitment and Hiring Practices:
- The University “Ukraine” adopts inclusive recruitment and hiring practices to attract a diverse faculty and staff, including proactive outreach to underrepresented groups.
- 5. Affinity Groups and Support Networks:
- The University “Ukraine” supports and encourages the formation of affinity groups and support networks for various identity groups, providing spaces for community building, networking, and support.
- 6. Inclusive Curriculum:
- The University “Ukraine” integrates diverse perspectives into the academic curriculum to reflect the experiences and contributions of individuals from different backgrounds.
- 7. Accessible Facilities and Services:
- The University “Ukraine” ensures that campus facilities and services are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities, and that accommodations are readily available. The campus of the University “Ukraine” is the only University campus in the country fully accommodated for people with special needs.
- 8. Cultural Competence Programs:
- The University “Ukraine” develops cultural competence programs that promote understanding and respect for different cultures, religions, and backgrounds.
- 9. Inclusive Events and Celebrations:
- The University “Ukraine” organizes inclusive events and celebrations that recognize and celebrate various cultural, religious, and identity-based observances. One of the most famous is a “Ray of Hope”.
10. Regular Diversity Audits:
- The University “Ukraine” conducts regular diversity audits to assess the demographic composition of the university community and identify areas for improvement.
11. Bias Reporting Mechanism:
- The University “Ukraine” has established a bias reporting mechanism to allow members of the community to report incidents of discrimination or bias, with appropriate follow-up actions.
12. Mentorship and Support Programs:
- The University “Ukraine” implements mentorship and support programs to help underrepresented individuals connect with mentors, fostering professional and academic development.
13. Community Engagement:
- The University “Ukraine” engages with local communities and external organizations to promote diversity and inclusion beyond the university campus. For example, our Joint project of social activities of University "Ukraine" and the Kyiv City State Administration “Ensuring the provision of comprehensive social and psychological assistance to Kyiv citizens” and "Personal assistant for persons with disabilities".
14. Accessible Education:
- The University “Ukraine” ensures that education is accessible to all students, regardless of socioeconomic background, and provides financial aid and scholarship programs to support diverse student populations.
15. Regular Feedback and Evaluation:
- The University “Ukraine” solicits feedback from the university community through surveys, focus groups, and town hall meetings to continuously assess the effectiveness of diversity and inclusion initiatives.
The University “Ukraine” has taken several steps to ensure ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY AND CONTRIBUTE TO THE FIGHT AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE:
- 1. Sustainability Policy:
- The University “Ukraine” has established a comprehensive sustainability policy that outlines its commitment to environmental responsibility and climate action.
- 2. Carbon Footprint Assessment:
- The University “Ukraine” conducts a thorough assessment of the University's carbon footprint, identifying key areas of impact such as energy consumption, transportation, and waste generation.
- 3. Energy Efficiency Measures:
- The University “Ukraine” implements energy-efficient technologies and practices across campus buildings, including smart lighting, HVAC systems, and insulation improvements.
- 4. Waste Reduction and Recycling Programs:
- The University “Ukraine” implements waste reduction strategies, promotes recycling initiatives, and reduces single-use plastics on campus.
- 5. Green Building Standards:
- The University “Ukraine” adopts green building standards for new construction and renovations, focusing on sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly design.
- 6. Biodiversity Conservation:
- The University “Ukraine” promotes biodiversity conservation by maintaining green spaces, planting native vegetation, and supporting habitat restoration efforts.
- 7. Sustainable Transportation:
- The University “Ukraine” encourages the use of sustainable transportation options, such as biking, walking, and public transit. Provides bike racks and promotes carpooling to reduce emissions.
- 8. Environmental Education:
- The University “Ukraine” integrates environmental and sustainability topics into the academic curriculum, raising awareness and fostering a sense of responsibility among students and faculty.
- 9. Research and Innovation:
- The University “Ukraine” supports research initiatives focused on climate change, sustainable practices, and environmental protection. Encourages innovation in areas such as clean energy and eco-friendly technologies. We are the only University in Ukraine which has a Master’s Program in Permaculture.
10. Community Engagement:
- The University “Ukraine” engages with the local community to share knowledge, collaborate on environmental initiatives, and promote sustainability beyond the campus borders. The Institute of Biomedical Technologies organizes annual conferences.
11. Carbon Neutrality Commitment:
- The University “Ukraine” sets a goal to achieve carbon neutrality within a specific timeframe, implementing strategies to reduce emissions and offsetting remaining emissions through initiatives like tree planting or carbon credits.
12. Student Involvement:
- The University “Ukraine” engages students in sustainability efforts through student-led environmental groups, eco-friendly events, and opportunities for hands-on involvement in sustainable projects.
13. Partnerships and Collaborations:
- The University “Ukraine” establishes partnerships with environmental organizations, government agencies, and industry stakeholders to collaborate on larger-scale initiatives and contribute to regional or global sustainability efforts.
The University “Ukraine” has taken several steps to ensure DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION:
- 1. Assessment and Planning:
- The University “Ukraine” conducts a comprehensive assessment of current systems, processes, and technologies. The University defines the objectives and scope of digital transformation. The University “Ukraine” has developed a strategic plan outlining goals, timelines, and key performance indicators.
- 2. Leadership and Governance:
- The University “Ukraine” has established strong leadership support for digital transformation initiatives.
- The University “Ukraine” has formed a dedicated team responsible for overseeing and driving the digital transformation process.
- The University “Ukraine” has defined governance structures and decision-making processes.
- 3. Infrastructure and Technology Upgrade:
- The University “Ukraine” invests in modern infrastructure and technologies that support digitalization. There is a unique class with computers and other special devices for persons with disabilities (grant from Korean partners).
- The University “Ukraine” constantly upgrades existing platform Moodle that enhance efficiency, scalability, and security.
- 4. Data Management and Analytics:
- The University “Ukraine” implements robust data management systems to collect, store, and analyze data, leverages data analytics to gain insights for informed decision-making.
- 5. Cloud Integration:
- The University “Ukraine” embraces cloud computing to enhance flexibility, scalability, and accessibility of services, migrates relevant systems and applications to cloud-based platforms.
- 6. Cybersecurity Measures:
- The University “Ukraine” strengthens cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information, implements protocols for data privacy and compliance with regulations.
- 7. Digital Skills Development:
- The University “Ukraine” provides training programs for staff to develop digital skills, encourages continuous learning and adaptability in the face of technological changes.
- 8. Collaboration Tools and Communication:
- The University “Ukraine” implements collaboration tools and communication platforms to facilitate remote work and streamline information sharing.
- 9. Digital Marketing and Branding:
- The University “Ukraine” enhances the digital presence through effective digital marketing strategies, utilizes website, social media and online platforms to promote the university's brand and engage with the community.
10. Monitoring and Evaluation:
- The University “Ukraine” has established monitoring mechanisms to track the progress of digital transformation initiatives. The University “Ukraine” regularly evaluates the effectiveness of implemented solutions and make adjustments as needed.
11. Accessibility and Inclusivity:
- The University “Ukraine” ensures that digital services and platforms are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities, promotes inclusivity in the digital transformation process.
12. Regulatory Compliance:
- The University “Ukraine” stays informed about and comply with relevant regulations and standards in the digital space.
The University “Ukraine” has taken several steps to ensure PARTICIPATION IN DEMOCRATIC LIFE, COMMON VALUES, AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT:
- Civic Education Programs:
- The University “Ukraine” has established civic education programs within its curriculum, integrating courses that focus on political science, ethics, and civic responsibility.
- Campus Civic Engagement Center:
- The University “Ukraine” has created a special office within the Department of Education for civic engagement that serves as a hub for organizing and coordinating civic initiatives, events, and community service opportunities.
- Student-Led Initiatives:
- The University “Ukraine” encourages and supports student-led initiatives related to civic engagement, activism, and community service. This includes providing resources and mentorship for student organizations focused on civic issues.
- Voter Registration Drives:
- The University “Ukraine” organizes voter registration drives on campus to encourage students to register and participate in local, state, and national elections.
- Public Forums and Debates:
- The University “Ukraine” hosts public forums, debates, and discussions on campus that address current social and political issues, fostering an environment of open dialogue and critical thinking.
- Community Partnerships:
- The University “Ukraine” establishes partnerships with local community organizations, government agencies, and non-profits to create collaborative projects that address community needs and engage students in civic activities.
- Internship and Service-Learning Opportunities:
- The University “Ukraine” integrates civic engagement into academic programs through internships, service-learning opportunities, and projects that connect students with real-world issues.
- Ethics and Values Courses:
- The University “Ukraine” offers courses that explore ethical decision-making, moral philosophy, and values, providing students with a foundation for informed civic participation.
- Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives:
- The University “Ukraine” promotes diversity and inclusion as core values, ensuring that all voices are heard and respected in civic discussions and decision-making processes.
- Leadership Development Programs:
- The University “Ukraine” implements leadership development programs that equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to be active participants and leaders in civic life.
- Digital Civic Engagement:
- The University “Ukraine” utilizes technology and social media platforms to promote digital civic engagement, encouraging students to participate in online discussions, campaigns, and awareness initiatives.
- Civic Awards and Recognitions:
- The University “Ukraine” establishes awards and recognition programs to celebrate students, faculty, and staff who demonstrate outstanding commitment to civic engagement and community service.
- Global Citizenship Programs:
- The University “Ukraine” encourages a sense of global citizenship by offering international study opportunities, cross-cultural exchange programs, and initiatives that address global challenges.
- Support for Civic Organizations:
- The University “Ukraine” provides support and resources for student organizations focused on civic engagement, ensuring they have the tools needed to effectively contribute to the university community and beyond.
- Ongoing Assessment and Improvement:
- The University “Ukraine” regularly assesses the impact of civic engagement initiatives through surveys, focus groups, and other feedback mechanisms, making adjustments and improvements based on the results.