National University of Culture Extends Acting Rector’s Term Amid Criminal Probes

Current Challenges at the National University of Culture

According to ХВИЛЯ: The contract of Rector Mykhailo Poplavskyi at the National University of Culture has officially ended. Instead of holding elections for a new head, the university appointed Igor Komarnytskyi as acting rector. Initially, his mandate was set to expire on August 5, 2026, but it has now been extended. Meanwhile, ongoing criminal investigations are probing alleged misuse of nearly 760 million UAH in public funds and cases related to human trafficking under Article 149 of the Ukrainian Criminal Code.

Leadership Struggles and Staff Unrest

The university’s internal tensions are further fueled by a personnel dispute. Three department heads-Nadiya Broiako, Mykola Krypchuk, and Iryna Ivashchenko-have petitioned the Central Committee of the Trade Union of Education and Science Workers of Ukraine to terminate their contracts ahead of schedule. All three are distinguished professors and art scholars, honored as Merited Artists of Ukraine and recognized educational achievers. Notably, Mykola Krypchuk is an internally displaced person from Luhansk and currently serves as a department head.

Amid these developments, the university community has received little clarity from the Ministry of Education and Science regarding the extension of the acting rector’s authority and the recent personnel changes. For several months now, the institution has operated under interim leadership without a transparent process for selecting a permanent rector, raising concerns among faculty and students alike. This situation is further complicated by the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Kyiv facing repeated missile and drone attacks, disrupting academic activities.

The professors who appealed to the trade union maintain that their five-year contracts remain valid, and the administrative decisions impact not only them but also other esteemed professors, artists, and cultural figures at the university. Investigations focus on two criminal cases concerning budgetary fraud and human trafficking, with the prosecutor’s office overseeing these proceedings.

As Mykhailo Poplavskyi remarked, 'Sorry, I have left.'

Meanwhile, a university community member commented, 'Perhaps you haven’t had enough drama yet,' highlighting the multitude of challenges the institution faces during these difficult times. Despite the turmoil, students and faculty continue their educational and professional activities, striving to adapt to the changing circumstances.

The situation at the National University of Culture remains complex and tense. The lack of transparent appointment processes and ongoing criminal investigations threaten the university’s reputation and operational stability amid wartime conditions. These challenges pose significant risks to the educational environment and the institution’s future, demanding concerted efforts from the entire university community to navigate and overcome.