On June 2, 2026, representatives of Khmelnytskyi National University participated in the international online conference and BarCamp, “THEA Ukraine Lead International Online Conference and BarCamp 2026,” organized by Münster University of Applied Sciences (Germany) in cooperation with Sumy State University within the framework of the international project THEA Ukraine Lead.
Khmelnytskyi National University was represented at the event by Kateryna Skyba, Vice-Rector for Scientific and Pedagogical Work and International Relations, Yurii Mudryk, Dean of the Faculty of International Relations and Law, and Olena Martyniuk, Vice-Dean of the Faculty of International Relations and Law.
The conference brought together university leaders, academics, researchers, human resources professionals, and international affairs specialists from Ukraine and other countries to discuss current challenges and prospects for the development of university leadership in contemporary conditions. A distinctive feature of the event was the combination of expert presentations by international speakers with the interactive BarCamp format, which created a space for professional dialogue, exchange of experience, and collaborative exploration of solutions to pressing issues in higher education development.
Particular attention was given to topics related to employee wellbeing at universities, mental health support, burnout prevention, and achieving a healthy work–life balance. For Khmelnytskyi National University, these issues are highly relevant, as they are reflected in the KhNU Development Strategy for 2026–2030. In particular, the strategic objective “People and Culture” focuses on creating conditions for the harmonious integration of professional development and personal growth, supporting mental well-being, developing leadership competencies, and fostering a human-centred university environment.
The conference also addressed issues of inclusive leadership, intercultural interaction, international partnership development, support for academic communities facing crisis-related challenges, and the role of universities in social development and the post-war recovery of Ukraine. Participants had the opportunity to explore international experience and best practices in university governance, presented by experts from around the world.
Representatives of Khmelnytskyi National University have been actively involved in THEA Ukraine initiatives for several years. In particular, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs and International Relations, Kateryna Skyba, serves as a trainer in the THEA Lead Ukraine program, contributing to the development of a community of academic leaders across Ukrainian higher education institutions. Participation in the THEA project activities provides additional opportunities for professional development, international exchange of experience, and the implementation of modern approaches to university governance.
The participation of KhNU representatives in THEA Ukraine Lead project activities contributes to the development of leadership competencies, the expansion of international professional cooperation, and the adoption of contemporary approaches to higher education management. The knowledge and experience gained during the conference will serve as an important resource for the further development of the university community, the implementation of KhNU’s strategic goals, and the strengthening of its position within both the national and international educational landscape.
Khmelnytskyi National University expresses its sincere gratitude to the organisers of the event—Münster University of Applied Sciences and Sumy State University—for the opportunity to participate in an international professional dialogue aimed at advancing modern university leadership and supporting Ukrainian higher education.