The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine (MESU) is implementing a range of measures aimed at strengthening international cooperation and promoting the internationalisation of higher education and research. These initiatives support cooperation with Ukrainian researchers abroad, as well as opportunities for foreign lecturers and scientists to contribute to higher education and research activities in Ukraine.
Supporting cooperation with Ukrainian researchers abroad
One of the key areas is expanding cooperation with Ukrainian academics working at leading foreign higher education institutions. This mainly concerns members of the Ukrainian scientific diaspora, including those staying abroad as a result of the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation.
The initiative is being implemented through the institution of international scientific ambassadors, which supports the establishment of a network of researchers connected with higher education and research institutions in Ukraine.In particular, scientific ambassadors are expected to:
- develop and maintain communication with international education and research institutions;
- increase the participation of Ukrainian education institutions in international programmes, consortia and projects;
- expand international partnerships and attract external funding;
- maintain professional links between Ukrainian researchers abroad and strengthen their cooperation with domestic educational institutions.
This approach has also been formalised at the regulatory level. MESU approved the Model Regulation on Scientific Ambassadors, which defines the principles, functions, selection procedures and cooperation mechanisms for such representatives.
Engaging foreign specialists in higher education and research
Another important area is expanding opportunities for foreign lecturers, scientists and experts to contribute to higher education and research activities in Ukraine.
The involvement of foreign specialists is supported through grant and partnership programmes, including initiatives funded by the President’s Fund of Ukraine for Education, Science and Sports. These programmes enable participation in:
- teaching activities;
- joint educational programmes;
- collaborative research projects.
This cooperation allows foreign specialists to support teaching, curriculum development, research, and the training of students and research staff.
Pilot initiatives have already been launched, including the UK–UA Visiting Professors Programme.
The programme supports Ukraine’s integration into the international academic community and strengthens STEM education through knowledge exchange and modern university practices. Together, these efforts are part of a national policy to expand academic partnerships and support Ukraine’s integration into the European and global academic community.
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