Largest forum of diaspora educators, supported by UWC’s IECC, wraps up in Lviv

The Third World Forum of Ukrainian Studies Saturday and Sunday Schools, partnered with the UWC’s International Educational Coordinating Council (IECC), has concluded its conference in Lviv. The gathering took place between August 21 to 23, bringing together more than 200 participants from different parts of Ukraine and 28 countries around the world.

Discussions focused on the major challenges facing Ukrainian education abroad. Matters included the lack of state support for diaspora Saturday and Sunday schools, the shortage of qualified staff, issues in organizing the educational process, lack of psychological support, and the assimilation of Ukrainian children to host countries.

According to official data, 600,000 Ukrainian children were forced to relocate to EU countries. However, according to unofficial data the number may exceed one million minors. This estimate was shared by Lyuba Lyubchyk, who is UWC’s IECC Chair, during an interview with Pershyi Zakhidnyi after the forum.

“Not all parents understand the importance and necessity of Ukrainian studies education abroad. Some parents are so eager to assimilate quickly and blend into their host country that they sometimes forget about the most important things,” Lyuba Lyubchyk lamented, but she added that, fortunately, most parents still maintain their connection with Ukraine.

Ukrainian schools constitute a key institution for maintaining Ukrainian public life abroad, UWC President Paul Grod told forum participants in his speech. “Alongside Ukrainian churches, youth organizations, cultural groups, student associations, professional organizations, social institutions, and political and civic groups, they form the foundation that nurtures Ukrainian patriots and leaders in the diaspora,” Grod highlighted.

“We must instill in Ukrainian children abroad not only the ability to speak Ukrainian but also the capability and desire to defend Ukraine’s interests and build international support for the country. Without this international support, Ukraine’s existence is at risk. Your role as educators is crucial for Ukraine’s future,” the UWC President stressed.

The forum was dedicated this year to the memory of Anna Kisil and Stefan Romaniw – prominent leaders of the Ukrainian World Congress and figures in the Ukrainian movement abroad, who dedicated their lives and tireless work to Ukraine.