From September 17 to 19, 2024, the University Centre for Foreign Languages at Nicolaus Copernicus University (NCU) in Toruń hosted a three-day workshop titled “Lifelong Learning in the Times of VUCA“. This workshop was part of the Copernican Integration Network (COIN2) project, funded by the National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) as part of the “Solidarity with Ukraine” program.
Alongside two representatives from the University of Rijeka, participants included representatives from partner universities in the YUFE alliance: the University of Eastern Finland, the University of Essex, the University of Antwerp, the University of Bremen, and Sorbonne Nouvelle, as well as representatives from Ukrainian universities: V.N. Karazin National University in Kharkiv, Ivan Franko National University in Lviv, Ukrainian Catholic University in Lviv, and Taras Shevchenko National University in Kyiv.
The workshop program included presentations from universities in the YUFE alliance and Ukrainian institutions on the application of lifelong learning and the challenges of the modern world, characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA).
In wartime conditions, Ukrainian universities face challenges such as unstable access to technology and the internet, making online learning difficult in conflict-affected areas. Additionally, the psychological impact of stress and trauma caused by the war significantly affects students’ mental health, reducing their motivation and ability to focus on academic responsibilities. To respond to these new challenges, Ukrainian universities are developing diverse strategies, including the creation of tailored study programs and specific courses for veterans and their families, community engagement activities, and partnerships with local organizations to enhance support networks.
During the workshop, representatives from the Rectorate presented the quality assurance system in the field of lifelong education at the university, as well as best practices that connect the university with the community, including activities of the Science Popularization Centre, the University for the Third Age, and the “UNIRI for Cresani” project.
This event provided an opportunity to further strengthen cooperation between European and Ukrainian universities, stimulating discussions about future joint projects, especially in the field of lifelong learning.
