On April 24, Kateryna Skyba, Vice-Rector for Scientific and Pedagogical Work of Khmelnytskyi National University, took part in an important professional event — the “ErasmusBranch” Info-Session Webinar: Implementation of Joint Educational Programs in Ukraine, held online.
The event brought together leading experts in higher education, researchers, and university administrators from across Ukraine to discuss the prospects and mechanisms for introducing joint (dual) degree programs in Ukrainian higher education institutions. Particular emphasis was placed on aligning European best practices with Ukrainian legislation in accordance with the Strategy for Higher Education Development in Ukraine 2022–2032.
The session focused on current challenges in academic mobility, internationalisation of education, and the development of joint master’s programs that meet EU standards. The webinar offered participants in-depth insights into the newly approved Methodological Guidelines for implementing coordinated joint educational programs, as per the official directive of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine.
The session opened with welcome remarks from: Olha Budnyk, Advisor to the President of Ukraine on Education, Science, and Sports; Svitlana Shytikova, Coordinator of the National Erasmus+ Office in Ukraine; Oleh Sharov, Director General of the Directorate of Higher Education of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine.
Noteworthy contributions included presentations by Oleh Sharov and Iryna Zolotarova, who focused on the legal aspects of the Higher Education Development Strategy and accreditation of joint programs. Zhanna Talanova, representative of the National Erasmus+ Office in Ukraine, introduced current EU trends and practical tools for launching joint master’s programs.
For Kateryna Skyba, participation in the event continued the strategic trajectory of Khmelnytskyi National University toward European integration and the development of international cooperation. The expert insights helped clearly outline the necessary steps for initiating dual degree programs that enhance the competitiveness of Ukrainian graduates in the global labour market.
The Vice-Rector’s involvement in the info-session underscores HNU’s readiness to actively join the European Higher Education Area through Erasmus+, in line with current legislative updates and methodological frameworks.
This event not only served as a platform for professional dialogue but also provided a strong impetus for the practical implementation of joint educational initiatives within Ukraine’s higher education system.