On 30 April an official ceremony marking the opening of Ukrainian Studies took place at Ateneo de Manila University within the framework of the Global Coalition of Ukrainian Studies — an initiative of First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska aimed at expanding Ukraine’s international academic presence and promoting intercultural dialogue.

The initiative reflects Ukraine’s consistent efforts to promote knowledge of its history, culture, identity and contemporary development worldwide, as well as to foster sustainable people-to-people connections through education and academic cooperation.

The official opening of Ukrainian Studies was attended by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Olexandr Mischenko, who is on a working visit to the Republic of the Philippines. The participation of the Ukrainian side in the ceremony underscored the Government’s support for the development of this initiative.

The establishment of Ukrainian Studies at one of the leading higher education institutions in the Philippines marks an important milestone in the development of educational and cultural ties between Ukraine and the Republic of the Philippines, and confirms the growing interest in Ukraine within the Philippine academic community.

Ukrainian Studies at Ateneo de Manila University are expected to become a sustainable platform for academic exchanges, research cooperation and a broader understanding of Ukraine in the Philippines.