Born to be free
Today we are celebrating Ukraine’s Independence Day — a holiday that has taken on a profound meaning in the current circumstances. For us, independence is no longer just a date on the calendar, nor merely a page in history. It is something that Ukraine fights for, defends and upholds every day at an extremely high cost. We know full well that freedom must be safeguarded, nurtured and given meaning — through our work, our sense of responsibility, our knowledge and our civic engagement.
Today, first and foremost, we bow our heads in tribute to all those who gave their lives for Ukraine. It is with deep gratitude that we think of our soldiers — those who are currently defending our country, holding the front line and enabling us to work, to teach, to bring up the younger generation, and to make plans for the future. Our independence is built on their names, their courage and their self-sacrifice.
For the university community, independence has another extremely important dimension. It is the right to educate free people. People who are educated, discerning, responsible and capable of building a strong Ukraine. After all, the future of the nation is forged not only on the battlefield — it is forged in lecture theatres, laboratories, libraries, through scientific research, and in the honest, daily work of each and every one of us.
Addressing those present, Oksana Desyatnyuk, Rector of WUNU, said: “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the staff of West Ukrainian National University for remaining strong, united and devoted to our homeland, even during the most difficult times for our country. For teaching, supporting young people, working to advance science and education, helping our defenders and, through your daily efforts, strengthening Ukraine and its independence.”
We may differ in our views and experiences, but we are united by what matters most — Ukraine. And it is precisely our unity that is one of the strongest responses to the enemy today.
Let each of us be mindful that an independent Ukraine begins with the personal responsibility of every individual. It begins with our language, our memory, our culture, our work, our mutual support, and our ability to remain human even in the darkest of times.
I wish us all strength and resilience. Faith, grounded in our daily work. Unity — not just on festive occasions, but in every decision and every action. And above all, I wish Ukraine victory. A just peace. The safe return of our defenders, both men and women, to their homes. The reconstruction of Ukrainian towns and villages. The return of the Ukrainian flag to all our land.
May there come a day when we celebrate Independence without sirens, without anxiety and without loss — in a strong, peaceful, free, European Ukraine.”
A poignant poem was recited by a university student, Ivanna Karpun. The premiere of a song written especially for Independence Day added a special touch to the event. The lyrics were written by Alla Humeniuk-Bintsarovska, whilst the music was composed by Serhii Rodko. It was performed by Iryna Sheheda, a student at WUNU and a prize-winner at international and national song competitions and festivals.
May Ukraine be strong — just like its people.
May it be free — just like our dream.
May it remain unconquered — just like the spirit of those who defend it.
Happy Independence Day, dear Ukraine!
