Володимир БурдІн

Introduction to the Rector Candidates

Overview of the Event

• The event provides a platform for candidates vying for the position of rector at Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, allowing students and faculty to familiarize themselves with their programs and backgrounds.

• Emphasizes the importance of leadership in one of Ukraine's largest and most popular universities.

Candidate Introduction: Volodymyr Burdin

Background Information

• Volodymyr Burdin, a Doctor of Law and Dean of the Faculty of Law, is introduced as one of the candidates. He expresses gratitude for being invited to discuss his vision.

Personal Connection to the University

• Burdin shares his long-standing connection with the university since 1993, highlighting his journey from assistant lecturer to dean, which gives him insight into internal university issues.

Vision for Change

Goals and Challenges

• Discusses his management experience and vision for navigating current socio-economic challenges facing universities in Ukraine. He aims to address pressing issues rather than limiting himself to a "top three" list.

Common Issues Among Universities

• Identifies that state-funded classical universities face similar problems, particularly regarding financial support from the government which has been declining over time.

Financial Challenges

Funding Shortfalls

• Highlights that state funding has decreased significantly, forcing university administration to seek alternative revenue sources such as rental income and paid services. This shift raises concerns about maintaining budgetary status while operating more like profit-driven institutions.

Impact on Educational Programs

• Warns that if this trend continues, it may lead to program cuts or consolidations due to lack of profitability in certain academic areas like philosophy or history, which are essential but not commercially viable.

Staffing Crisis

Recruitment Difficulties

• Addresses a staffing crisis where older faculty members are retiring without sufficient younger replacements due to unattractive salary offers compared to other job markets. This creates an imbalance where students can earn more than their professors in part-time jobs.

Quality Concerns in Higher Education

• Raises concerns about graduates not working in their fields post-graduation, indicating a disconnect between education quality and job market needs; emphasizes improving graduate employability as crucial for institutional reputation.

Improving Admission Strategies

Need for Quality Applicants

Discussion on University Challenges and Ethical Concerns

Budget Constraints and Admission Issues

• The competition for budget-funded places in universities is decreasing annually, leading to a reliance on tuition-paying students to sustain operations and create special funds.

• To attract quality applicants, it is suggested that universities should set higher admission thresholds rather than accepting all candidates indiscriminately.

Impact on Education Quality

• Accepting underqualified students can lower the overall teaching standards at institutions like Lviv University, affecting both current students and future graduates.

Addressing Harassment Allegations

• A recent scandal involving harassment allegations against a journalism faculty professor highlights the need for better mechanisms to prevent such issues and encourage student reporting.

• The university's response includes recommendations for dismissing the accused professor, emphasizing the importance of addressing ethical behavior among faculty members.

Student Support Systems

• It is crucial for universities to have psychological support services accessible to students, including confidential hotlines for reporting harassment incidents.

• If specific names are mentioned during consultations regarding harassment, university leadership has the authority to take appropriate action against faculty members involved.

Balancing Rights and Responsibilities

• While acknowledging potential misuse of reporting systems by students, it is essential for university administration to investigate claims thoroughly without bias towards either party involved.

Corruption in Higher Education

Recognition of Corruption Issues

• There is an acknowledgment that corruption exists within universities; however, not all practices are corrupt. The challenge lies in addressing these issues effectively.

Preventative Measures Against Corruption

• Establishing a hotline could help report corruption anonymously. Additionally, creating a student ombudsman position may provide a direct channel for complaints about unethical behavior from faculty.

Distinction Between Student Government and Ombudsman Role

• The proposed student ombudsman would operate independently from student government activities, focusing solely on addressing corruption concerns within academic settings.

University Property Management Challenges

Discussion on University Assets

University Infrastructure and Military Training

Architectural Heritage and University Facilities

• The discussion highlights the complex issue of university property, particularly regarding its architectural significance and current condition. The state of various buildings influences whether they are classified as architectural monuments.

• There is a recognition that while the university can manage minor repairs (like internet installation or roof maintenance), it lacks the funds for more extensive renovations. State programs for dormitory restoration are suggested as potential solutions.

• A specific dormitory on Arkhipenka Street has been deemed uninhabitable, leading to all students being evacuated. The future of this building remains uncertain, with indications that it may not be salvageable.

• Reflecting on past experiences, the speaker expresses disappointment over the lack of progress in restoring an architectural monument known as the Bessadetsky Palace, which has been neglected for over 20 years despite efforts from both university administration and city council.

• Rumors suggest there might be an investor interested in revitalizing the Bessadetsky Palace; however, details remain unclear. Previous discussions about investment opportunities have not yielded results.

Implementation of Military Training Programs

• The introduction of mandatory military training for students is confirmed, applicable to both male and female students starting September 1st. This initiative stems from formal decisions made by the Ministry of Education.

• The structure of military training will involve theoretical components at university faculties and practical training at military units or organizations.