An interactive event for war veterans at the Transcarpathian Education and Research Centre of WUNU
The Transcarpathian Education and Research Centre of West Ukrainian National University hosted an interactive event for war veterans, military personnel and their families entitled ‘Platform for the Adaptation and Professional Fulfilment of Ukraine’s Defenders: “Recovery. Unity. Development”’.
This event was designed to spark a dialogue between the local community, the business sector, educators and veterans, as well as their families. Those present were united by a shared desire to ensure that war veterans can thrive in civilian life and find support within society.
The event was attended by veterans, serving military personnel and their families, officers from the Civil-Military Cooperation Unit of the Transcarpathian Regional Military Administration and Joint Staff, representatives and veterans of the non-governmental organisation ‘Association of War Veterans – New Format’, the public organisation “Veteran’s Support” of the Zakarpattia region, the municipal institution “Veterans’ Space ‘At Home’” of the Zakarpattia Regional Council, the charitable organisation “Charitable Foundation ‘Prosthetic Foundation’”, and the company “Krok Wood”.
Many veterans face difficulties finding employment due to injuries, concussions or other health issues. Researchers at West Ukrainian National University provided a range of practical tips on how to write a CV more effectively when looking for work, how to cope with the effects of psychological trauma, and how to boost self-esteem.
The meeting was attended by representatives of local businesses and organisations, who have developed specific support schemes and incentives for Ukrainian servicemen who have already left the armed forces. In particular, one of the leading European companies operating in the region is prepared to actively recruit former servicemen, offering them an additional 14 days’ leave.
Representatives from the Svaliava Employment Centre spoke about grant schemes for military personnel and their families, designed to support them in setting up their own businesses. The centre also runs retraining programmes in other fields — for example, a group of veterans was recently enrolled in driving courses.
Another major international company in the region has introduced a unique role for a veteran officer, who works directly on the production floor to look after former combatants and provide them with psychological support. In addition, veterans receive a one-off financial bonus upon being hired.
Roman Bendas, a representative of the ‘New Format’ War Veterans’ Association, spoke about how former servicemen, by coming together, help one another. The association successfully helps its members find employment; thanks to their shared experiences of living through extreme circumstances, they are better able to work together more effectively and efficiently.
The ‘SKY TEK’ business support centre, which has a network across Zakarpattia, also offers free consultations to military personnel. The centre’s specialists provide free assistance to veterans in setting up their own businesses and support them throughout the business development process.
Edita Hrabar, Director of the Transcarpathian Education and Research Centre, noted that this year West Ukrainian National University is offering veterans the opportunity to enrol on the basis of an interview, without having to sit any exams.
Olesia Prytula, PhD in Psychology and Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology and Social Work of WUNU, and Serhii Sheremeta, PhD in Psychology at the Department of Psychology and Social Work of WUNU, delivered an engaging and informative lecture entitled ‘Secrets to Success in a Job Interview: The Psychology of Self-Regulation and Self-Presentation’. Svitlana Prokhorovska, PhD in Economics and Associate Professor at the Department of Management, Public Administration and Personnel of WUNU, delivered a lecture and masterclass entitled “A Veteran’s Professional CV: Adapting Skills to the Modern Labour Market”.
Representatives from the Mukachevo branch of the Transcarpathian Regional Employment Centre, the community enterprise ‘Flex LTD’, “Forshner”, “SKY TEK”, “Krok Wood”, and “Association of War Veterans – New Format” shared some insights into institutional opportunities and where to find support and employment for veterans.
Mariia Bobylova, a leading specialist at the Transcarpathian Education and Research Centre of WUNU, gave a presentation on our higher education institution and informed military personnel and veterans about the opportunities for pursuing higher education at West Ukrainian National University, covering all modes of study and specialisations across all levels of education. It was also emphasised that the Transcarpathian Education and Research Centre of WUNU forms regional student groups for the university’s educational programmes and provides support for the learning process directly on site.
The event concluded with a wrap-up session, during which the key findings were summarised and individual consultations were held.
Returning to civilian life after the war is a new challenge that requires not only strength but also support. Education, professional development, new knowledge and employment opportunities are vital tools for veterans to successfully adapt to life in peacetime. That is why creating spaces for dialogue, learning and the exchange of experiences is of the utmost importance. Every defender deserves the chance to fulfil their potential and acquire new knowledge. Let us support those who have defended and continue to defend Ukraine.
