Sustaining academic commitment under adverse circumstances and adapting to new roles during the year of war: Example of Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University

Abstract

The full-scale russia-Ukraine war, which started in February 2022, created severe challenges in every domain throughout the country, including that of higher education. Therefore, educational authorities’ response to this crisis has become interesting and significant. The goal of this study is to highlight the experience of Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, exemplifying potential reactions to this new situation, analyzing the university’s overall structure and functioning, in particular, its continuing dedication to its long-term academic role while implementing crisis management measures during the martial law. The asynchronous teaching mode and unique linkages with LUVNU students and teachers residing outside the country illustrated the university’s commitment to its educational role. At the same time, staff and students of the university demonstrated their capacity to take on a totally new role, seeking ways to support the military and various population groups suffering from the full-scale invasion. This flexibility was reflected in a wide range of specific projects undertaken by different entities within the university, demonstrating their ability to devise initiatives that corresponded in some manner to their original field of study in the university, whether it be for the manufacture of specialized items or the opening up of personal support structures.