Ukraine and the Republic of Poland: educational and cultural relations in times of war

Abstract

The article examines the current state of partnership in the field of education and culture between the Republic of Poland and Ukraine. It explores the forms and pathways of cooperation between governmental institutions, educational establishments, and cultural organizations of the two countries. The study highlights the transformation of Ukrainian-Polish international relations during the period of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. Particular attention is given to the evolving forms of interstate interaction in the spheres of education, science, culture, and cultural diplomacy, manifested in the expansion of academic mobility, the growth of international partnerships, and the institutional support of Ukrainian educational and cultural initiatives in the Republic of Poland. An analysis of scholarly publications and information from official governmental sources demonstrates the substantial potential of Polish governmental and non-governmental institutions aimed at preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage, supporting pupils, students, and researchers, and fostering the development of joint educational and cultural projects under wartime conditions. The article substantiates the importance of cooperation among educational institutions, including the National Academy of Educational Sciences of Ukraine, the Ivan Ziaziun Institute of Pedagogical and Adult Education of the NAES of Ukraine, Ukrainian universities, and Polish academies, which has resulted in the signing of partnership agreements. An effective form of scientific cooperation in the field of pedagogy and education has been the organization of Polish-Ukrainian and Ukrainian-Polish forums, as well as a series of international scientific and practical conferences. The study identifies the most effective forms of Ukrainian-Polish cooperation, including joint conferences of partner universities, collaboration between student associations and academic circles, cooperation among student self-government bodies, and the organization of joint forums and summer schools for professionals responsible for educational management, along with initiatives aimed at improving the quality of higher education. The article outlines key trends in cooperation, such as the formation of new models of intercultural dialogue, the activation of civil society, and the strengthening of humanitarian partnership between the two countries. It also highlights the key challenges associated with wartime conditions and identifies prospects for further integration of Ukrainian-Polish educational and cultural relations within the context of the European educational space.