Starting in 2016, students of UNFU have the opportunity, together with students of Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (Germany), to participate in educational practice, which traditionally took place in the Ukrainian Carpathians. Students at Eberswalde University study the experience of ecosystem management in transformation countries, usually after the collapse of former communist regimes. However, after the start of a full-scale war in Ukraine, the visit to Romania was organized for the second time.

This year, UNFU students and teachers had a good opportunity to rejoin educational practice within the discipline "Ecosystem Management in Transforming Countries", which was introduced as an optional component of several educational programs at UNFU. The introduction of this discipline was financed by the German-Ukrainian project "Joint teaching and learning for empowerment and resilience of Ukrainian academia". German partners will be happy to support the decision of the guarantors of the educational programs of UNFU regarding the inclusion of this discipline in the curricula and the expansion of the circle of motivated students who can participate in the expansion of international cooperation at UNFU.

This year, in addition to Ukrainian students and students of the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development, students and teachers of the State University of Moldova participated in the study of the specifics of ecosystem management in Romania. The event was partially financed by the project of the German academic exchange agency DAAD "Biosphere Forests and Rivers: Building Support Systems and Connections for Conflict Transformation" within the "Dialogue between East and West" program. The educational trip for the Ukrainian participants began with a visit to the Fagaras and Piatra Craiului mountain ranges together with representatives of the Carpatia Foundation. General Director Christoph Promberger delivered a lecture and told about the foundation's main areas of work, including environmental protection, restoration of natural resources, increase of biodiversity, cooperation with local communities, and development of ecological tourism. The report sparked a lively discussion. Students' questions were related to international cooperation, sources of funding, communication with representatives of local authorities, and prospects for involving local residents in the work of the foundation.

The first day of the trip ended with an introduction evening, where all participants briefly spoke about their educational program, scientific interests, hobbies, and motivation for participating in educational practice. The next day, hiking to the Poiana Tamas Wilderness Camp was organized; the length of the route was about 15 km. The group of participants was accompanied by experienced guides. The Director of the Department of Nature Conservation, Mihai Zotta, spoke about the specifics of forestry and hunting in the region, legal aspects, and coordination of national legislation with EU regulations in the field of forest use. The purpose of the trip to the mountains was to investigate the peculiarities of the growth of beech and fir stands of natural and artificial origin, to compare different approaches to forest management, and to assess the impact of climate change on natural ecosystems.

Another interesting location in the training practice program was a visit to the Măcin Mountains. The acquaintance began with a visit to the tourist information center, where the tour guide told the students in detail about the history of Măcin Mountains National Park and the cultural and historical features of the region. A 23-km-long hike made it possible to explore the diversity of the rich flora and fauna of the nature reserve, as well as rare species of plants and animals. There was an opportunity to visit the beech forests of the core zone of the park. In the evening, students shared their impressions, communicated, exchanged opinions, and presented the cultural traditions of their country.

The final stage of the excursion included a visit to the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve. In the city of Tulcea, the students met with representatives of various stakeholder groups (the administration of the nature conservation area, researchers from scientific institutions, and representatives of the forestry company ROMSILVA). A lively discussion was followed by students about changes in natural ecosystems as a response to the consequences of climate change, the socio-economic development of the region, strategic directions for the development of nature conservation areas, transnational cooperation, and participation in EU grant programs. After that, the tour participants visited poplar plantations on the territory of the ROMSILVA company's operational forests.

In order to explore different aspects of the management of the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, the tour participants were divided into three groups: a visit to the forest in Caraorman, an excursion to the city of Sulina, and kayaking through the channels of the Danube River. A team of participants from UNFU visited the tourist information center in the city of Sulina, where they got acquainted with the history of the development of the biosphere reserve, rare species of flora and fauna, restrictions on fishing, and the socio-economic situation in the region. For a better understanding of modern challenges, it was possible to communicate with local residents and interview employees of the tourist center. A joint discussion and exchange of views took place on the shores of the Black Sea.

We express our sincere thanks to Professor Pierre Ibisch, Professor Martin Welp, project manager Angela Dichte, and employees of the Center for Econics and Ecosystem Management and the Institute of Biosphere Reserve of the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development. We hope for further close cooperation and the implementation of joint projects.

On May 8–14, 2023, the Ukrainian National Forestry University, together with the University of Applied Sciences in Bern (Switzerland) and the French School of Wood and Bioresources in Nantes, organized a "Special Week" on the basis of the School of Architecture, Wood, and Civil Engineering in Biel (Switzerland). 15 students from three universities took part in the "Special Week," five from each partner university. Anastasiya Udovytska, Olga Soroka, Anastasia Ivanska, Olga Tsunder, and Sofia Skrypets, under the guidance of Halyna Lesyuk, Head of the Mobility Sector of the International Relations Department, took part in the project. "Special Week" has been organized by partner universities since 2017 at the initiative of Prof. Orest Kiyko, Head of the Department of Furniture and Wood Products Technology, and Oliver Jaanke, manager of INNOVAWOOD, professor of the University of Applied Sciences in Bern.

"Special Week-2023" was devoted to the development of tools for the post-war transformation of three Ukrainian enterprises in the forest sector of Ukraine on the basis of the circular economy: the furniture enterprise "Mebli-style", LLC "Millwood" specializing in sawmill and planing production, and a company with the production of wooden houses "Servus". The event was financed by the University of Applied Sciences of Bern (Switzerland), SWISS KRONO, and Kronospan.

To prepare for the week, two online sessions (180 minutes each) were previously held: "Circular Economy", organized on April 19 by Cécile Cam, a teacher at the French School of Wood and Bioresources in Nantes, and Rachel Meili, a teacher at the University of Applied Sciences in Bern; and "Forestry and Woodworking Sector of Ukraine", organized by employees of UNFU on April 26.

"Special Week-2023" began with the presentations of three Ukrainian companies ("Mebli-style", Millwood," and "Servus") by Halyna Lesyuk and Orest Kiyko. The general manager of Mebli-style, Volodymyr Turchyn, and the general manager of Servus, Andriy Maly, joined the event online and answered questions about the work of their companies and problematic production issues. Afterwards, Cécile Cam, a teacher at the French School of Wood and Bioresources in Nantes, presented the CANVAS business model, on the basis of which students in international groups began to describe the current business model of the company through the prism of key elements (partners, resources, key activities, supply channels, consumers, value proposition, revenue structure, and cost structure). Monday ended with a visit to the local company Syphon AG, which prepares used household appliances and sanitary ware for secondary use (the reuse concept).

Tuesday was dedicated to working with international groups to develop circular economy solutions for Ukrainian enterprises. On Wednesday, the participants visited the parquet company BAUWERK (St. Margreten). After the tour of the production and the presentation of the company, two workshops, "The Future of the Forest Sector" and "Circularity in the Woodworking Sector of Ukraine," were held. Thursday was devoted to work in international groups and a workshop on management of international groups held by Antoine Lebou, manager of the international office of the French School of Wood and Bioresources in Nantes. After that, there was an excursion to the Omega watch museum.

Presentations by student groups were presented on Friday. The students identified the key solutions of the circular economy for "Furniture-style": opening second-life shops, using environmentally friendly raw materials for furniture production and packaging, and designing furniture in such a way that it can be easily transformed. For the Servus company, the students proposed the use of straw as an additional eco-material for the construction of houses, and for the Millwood LLC, which works mainly for export, to focus on local markets to reduce the negative impact of product transportation on the environment.

"I really liked this trip because I gained valuable experience and met new people. Since we have been speaking in English all week, my spoken English has improved a lot. I also learned a lot of new and useful information about the circular economy and the woodworking sector. The time spent with the team and company tours were the most memorable. I am very happy that I am studying at a university that provides such opportunities for students!" Anastasia Udovytska shares her impressions.

Olga Tsunder, who is a participant in the "Special Week" for the 3rd year in a row, notes that the work on the development of circular economy solutions for Ukrainian enterprises was very interesting:

"Our team worked with the data of the Servus company, which is engaged in the creation of houses from SIP panels as well as roof structures. First, we were given the task of researching the company's current business model. We successfully coped with this and found several problems on whose solutions we worked during the week. Our team developed a matrix of solutions for the company, which we divided according to the level of complexity (how much time and effort will be required to implement them) and the level of impact (to what extent this solution will positively affect the environment and the company's work). We also separately presented quick-win solutions that can be implemented in a short period of time. Regarding the financial component, we found state programs that provide loans and grants for the implementation of similar projects (the decision matrix is presented in the photo).

As for the organization of the week, overall impressions are positive. And although the road was quite difficult and the living conditions did not seem too favorable at first, we adapted quite quickly and found our advantages, for example, the fact that we had a great opportunity to get to know students from France better. I can even confidently say that we became friends. Unfortunately, the program of the week was even a little oversaturated. Of course, we gained a lot of new knowledge and skills, but there was no opportunity to spend at least a day walking and talking with each other; this was a little lacking.

At the beginning of the week, we were given the task of describing our expectations for this week in one or two words. I chose Friendship and Experience, and I think those words perfectly describe this year's "Special Week". In general, the impressions are positive, with many new emotions, skills, knowledge, and friends. I would gladly participate again and will definitely recommend this program to other students. Thank you for such a wonderful opportunity!".

On the occasion of the twentieth anniversary of the founding of the Lviv University of Business and Law, the Rector of the Ukrainian National Forestry University and Corresponding Member of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Professor Volodymyr Zahorskyi, took part in the solemn part of the International Scientific and Practical Conference "Actual Problems of Science and Practice in the Light of European Integration, Globalization, and Sustainable Development" and, on behalf of the UNFU team, congratulated fellow educators on this occasion.

The event was attended by representatives from partner universities in Ukraine and abroad, including Germany, Poland, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Nigeria, who constantly support the Lviv University of Business and Law.

Volodymyr Zahorskyi received a diploma from the European Institute of Continuing Education for significant personal achievements in professional activity and a significant contribution to the development of scientific research.

We express our gratitude for the contribution to the development of the educational sector and the implementation of an important task: the training of highly qualified specialists for the future of our country.

Since the introduction of martial law by the decree of the President of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the staff of the Ukrainian National Forestry University not only provides high-quality educational services but also participates in various ways in good deeds, defending the native land at the frontlines or providing other assistance, overcoming all difficulties on the way to victory. We express special gratitude to the scientific and pedagogical workers who defend the state on the frontlines for their strength of spirit and their indomitability, because they are those people who do not naturally hold a machine gun in their hands; their weapon is knowledge, but patriotism and the desire to live in a free country have changed their professional activities. The charitable contributions of employees are aimed at helping military personnel undergoing treatment and rehabilitation. We purchased critical medical equipment for the "Heart and Main Vessels Clinic" of the Military Medical Clinical Center of the Western Region and the ENT Department of the Lviv Regional Hospital for War Veterans and Repressed Named after Yu. Lypy", where the lives of wounded soldiers are saved. Many forest technicians, at the first opportunity, joined a large team of volunteers and dedicated themselves to good deeds, rescuing and helping others, and supporting those who are currently defending our freedom and territorial integrity or are among internally displaced persons.

The team of our university showed such an active position during the All-Ukrainian project "Ukraine. Scientists and educators: indomitable in the war" and received a diploma from the educational leadership of the state for significant contribution to educational, volunteer, and public activities, active resistance to aggression, and loyalty to the Ukrainian idea.

It is pleasant that there are many such caring and devoted people at the Ukrainian National Forestry University; each of them deserves special thanks and a low bow!

In unity, there is strength! Together to victory!

On May 8–12, 2023, an important event was held: EUROPE WEEK, within which the scientific and practical conference "European Guidelines for Public Administration" took place, the partner and co-organizer of which is the Ukrainian National Forestry University.

Scientists of the Ukrainian National Forestry University together with representatives of the National Agency of Ukraine for Civil Service, the Center for Adaptation of the Civil Service to the Standards of the European Union, the Higher School of Public Administration, UN Women Ukraine, the National Commission for State Language Standards, the Western Ukrainian National University, the National Technical University of Ukraine "Kyiv Polytechnic Institute named after Ihor Sikorsky", National University of Bioresources and Nature Management of Ukraine, National University "Chernihiv Polytechnic", Trade Union of Employees of State Institutions of Ukraine, Analytical and Consulting Center of Public Governance and Law worked out effective solutions regarding: relations between Ukraine and the EU; European values and their implementation in the public administration system; theoretical and practical aspects of the adaptation of the legislation of Ukraine to the law of the European Union; implementation of European standards of social dialogue as a mechanism for the recovery and development of Ukraine as a strong European country; European identity and cultural diversity.

During the plenary session, the first vice-rector for scientific and pedagogical work, Professor Oleksandr Sushinskyi, joined the discussion on the integration of efforts in the search for effective approaches to the solution of current theoretical, methodological, and practical challenges related to the formation and functioning of an effective system of public administration in accordance with the principles of public administration SIGMA.

Teachers and graduates of the Department of Public Management and Administration attended sectoral meetings. The moderator of the section "European values and their implementation in the system of public administration" was the head of the professional development center, associate professor Andrii Lipentsev. Presentation topics: "Aspects of reforming public administration: the potential of higher educational institutions for the integration of efforts" (associate professor Andriy Lipentsev); "How the values of public service change: requirements of time or a threat to functioning" (professor Nadiya Kalashnyk); "Problems of social legitimation of human rights: the experience of Ukraine and of Poland" (Professor Larisa Novak-Kalyaeva); "Systematic analysis of the public law of Ukraine regarding the implementation of European values in public administration" (postgraduate student Sofia Shutyak).

On May 18 (Thursday), 2023, at 2 p.m. in front of the administrative building of the Ukrainian National Forestry University, a PHOTO FLASH MOB "Come in Vyshyvanka" will be held.

Action plan:

12.00: Viewing of the first documentary film about embroidered shirts "The Heritage of the Nation".

Director and cinematographer: Oleksandr Tkachuk; author of the idea and screenwriter: Lesya Voronyuk (reading room of socio-economic literature, main building of the university, auditorium 412).

14.00: Photo flash mob "COME IN VYSHYVANKA" (in front of the administrative building of the Ukrainian National Forestry University).

Interactive photo exhibition "Believe. Love. Wait", dedicated to the families of prisoners of war.

Vyshyvanka is love! To embroider is to protect, to believe, and to wait.

To embroider is to protect.

There are a large number of traditions and rituals in which an embroidered shirt acts as a talisman. But modern Ukrainians sacralize embroidery the most. Hundreds of craftsmen throughout Ukraine embroider shirts for defenders with love and hope that the embroidery will protect our soldiers from enemy bullets. And the militaries wear them as spiritual armor.

To embroider is to believe.

Embroidered shirts became a symbol of faith during the Soviet occupation, first for Ukrainians exiled in camps and later for dissidents and Ukrainians in general, which transmitted the idea of independence from generation to generation until 1991.

To embroider is to wait.

Ukrainians are embroidering shirts and waiting for the return from the front and the capture of their most precious ones. They embroider in anticipation of Victory.

This year, World Embroidery Day falls on May 18, the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Crimean Tatar Genocide, and May 18–20, the anniversary of the withdrawal of Ukrainian defenders from Azovstal. As last year, we urge you not to hold high-profile events but to focus on your inner understanding of the value of an embroidered shirt as an integral part of our cultural heritage, which unites Ukrainians through generations and time.

Everyone has their own vyshyvanka. But there is one that is most valuable for everyone. Embroider to survive.

Vyshyvanka is the genetic code of the nation!

27 червня 2023 року ректор Національного лісотехнічного університету України Володимир Загорський та виконувач обов’язків ректора Львівського інституту менеджменту Василь Миронюк уклали договір про партнерство та співробітництво.

Підписанню договору передували неодноразові робочі зустрічі щодо визначення основних напрямів співробітництва, які відбувалися за ініціативи проректора з навчальної та наукової роботи Львівського інституту менеджменту Миколи Фурси. Відповідно до укладеного документу передбачається співпраця у напрямах:

26 червня 2023 року ректор Національного лісотехнічного університету України, чл.-кор. НАН України, проф. Володимир Загорський провів робочу зустріч з отцем-капеланом Богданом Куликом, настоятелем Студентського храму Рівноапостольного Князя Володимира НЛТУ України.

З 5 по 9 червня 2023 року в Університеті сталого розвитку Еберсвальде (Німеччина) відбувся тиждень-суперінтенсив Block Week 2023 навчального курсу Green Project Development & Management (GPDM) та тренінгу Interactive Content (IC) у рамках міжнародного проекту "Спільне викладання та навчання для розширення можливостей та стійкості української академічної спільноти" (Joint teaching and learning for empowerment and resilience of Ukrainian academia).

Делегація учасників із НЛТУ України, серед яких керівник проекту (Василь Лавний), лектори-розробники курсу  GPDM (Орест Кійко, Ігор Соловій) та лектори-розробники курсу ІС (Уляна Павлюк, Ігор Крошний, Олександр Сторожук), педагоги та аспіранти, мали нагоду наживо поспілкуватися з німецькими колегами та обмінятися ідеями щодо майбутньої співпраці.

У межах XXIV Міжнародної виставки “Деревообробка” та IV Всеукраїнського лісопромислового форуму з ініціативи ректора Національного лісотехнічного університету України, чл.-кор. НАН України, проф. Володимира Загорського 7 червня 2023 року відбулася робоча зустріч “Галузева освіта: ступеневий підхід та співпраця з бізнесом”.

Представники майже двадцяти закладів фахової передвищої та професійної освіти зустрілися з університетським керівництвом та директорами навчально-наукових інститутів НЛТУ України, щоб консолідувати свої зусилля та скоординувати свою діяльність для удосконалення ступеневої системи підготовки фахівців лісотехнічного профілю.