Festive Events at USUST in Honor of Ukraine’s Unity Day
On January 2, 2025, Ukraine celebrated Unity Day – a holiday symbolizing the unity of our people and the steadfastness of our state. This date holds special significance today as we continue to fight for our independence, territorial integrity, and future.
The celebration of this day at the Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies was marked by a special event. The festivities took place at the Fountain Square of the Scientific and Educational Institute “Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology” under the slogan “Strength in Unity!” – reflecting the importance of consolidating everyone’s efforts during these challenging times.
The university’s rector, Professor Kostiantyn Sukhyi, emphasized the critical role of the university in today’s reality during his speech:
“Today, we are going through incredibly challenging times for our Independence and for everyone. We must once again defend our Independence and prove that we are the greatest and strongest country in Europe. Our university community holds the educational front, conducts science focused solely on defense topics, helps citizens overcome the difficulties of wartime, and supports our defenders in their fight for freedom. In unity lies our strength!”
The word “unity” carries the history of a great nation. In 1919, a landmark event occurred: the unification of the Ukrainian People’s Republic and the West Ukrainian People’s Republic into a single state. This became a powerful step toward forming national identity and statehood. The Act of Unification symbolized triumph over divisions and called for unity in the fight for a shared goal.
Halyna Yevseieva, Vice-Rector for Educational Work and Humanitarian Policy, reminded attendees of the participation of the older generation in the symbolic and deeply patriotic event of 1990, when a human chain of millions of Ukrainians connected Lviv and Kyiv. This symbolic unification visually demonstrated Ukrainians’ desire for independence and unity. Today, the idea of unity is more relevant than ever because only together can we achieve Victory. Acting Director of SEI USUCT, Olga Sverdlikivska, highlighted the significance of this holiday: “Unity Day has never been as hard-earned and well-deserved as it is now. We must cherish our unity and make daily efforts to build our state.”
Attendees observed a moment of silence in honor of the heroic defenders who gave their lives for Ukraine’s freedom. During the celebration, a documentary film about the preparation and signing of the Act of Unification was screened in the Art Space. Students and faculty gained a deeper understanding of the motives and aspirations of the Ukrainian people to preserve the unity of the state even during the most challenging historical periods.
Unity Day at the Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies became a meaningful occasion to reflect on our past, envision our future, and reaffirm that together, we can overcome all challenges and preserve the integrity of our state.
We believe in Victory and a strong, united Ukraine!
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