12 prestigious universities of France joined the study of Ukraine: what does it mean

The First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, together with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha, and the Director General of the Ukrainian Institute, Volodymyr Sheiko, participated in the signing of agreements for the joining of 12 educational institutions of France to the Global Coalition for Ukrainian Studies.

Among the French universities joining the coalition are Sorbonne Université, University of Lorraine, Université Rennes 2, INALCO, Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne, Nantes Université, HEIP, CEDS, Université Paris-Panthéon-Assas, Université de Rennes, Sciences Po Rennes, and Sciences Po Paris.

'If students learn more about the history of Crimea and Donbas, about the artificial famine and repressions that the Soviet Union imposed on us, they will know more about the world, about tyranny and freedom. About themselves. Ukraine calls on everyone to know more about themselves and the world' – emphasized Olena Zelenska.

Absolute record

12 educational institutions of France are joining the Global Coalition for Ukrainian Studies, contributing to the state initiative to study Ukraine in higher education institutions around the world.

• Sorbonne Université - one of Europe's leading universities, which already has an active department and educational programs for Ukrainian culture.
• University of Lorraine - a major research hub in France with a Franco-Ukrainian program in international management.
• Université Rennes 2 - a leading university in Western France that cares about Ukrainian students.
• INALCO (National Institute for Oriental Languages and Civilizations) - the only institution in France with complete programs in the Ukrainian language.

During the celebrations at the Sorbonne, Olena Zelenska, Andrii Sybiha, and Volodymyr Sheiko expressed gratitude to French scholars for their cooperation. Currently, the Global Coalition consists of 44 participants from 15 countries worldwide.

The main idea is not only about a deep study of Ukraine but also about understanding the history of Crimea and Donbas, the artificial famine, and the political repressions that Ukraine suffered during the past. This allows students to understand the world, tyranny, and freedom, as well as themselves.

The foundational importance of education is also proposed through an exhibition already during the forum at the Sorbonne - a dual desk that symbolizes the importance of knowledge in history. This is one of the initiatives of the Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen 'Every generation leaves a mark. Education defines which,' which shows the consequences of ignorance and unawareness. Ukraine calls on everyone to be better educated about themselves and the world.