The Ukrainian Institute of Arts and Sciences (UIAS), a Seventh-day Adventist institution of higher education near Kyiv, Ukraine, celebrated its 2026 graduation ceremony on June 5, 2026, awarding bachelor’s degrees to 141 students and certificates to 33 graduates of professional programs.

This year’s graduation carried special significance.

The cohort began their studies in the autumn of 2022, only months after the liberation of the Kyiv region from Russian occupation. Throughout their academic journey, students faced wartime challenges, including air raid alarms, power outages, disrupted internet access, and ongoing uncertainty.

Among the graduates was the first cohort to complete the Theology program after it received state accreditation, marking an important milestone for theological education at the institution.

As in previous wartime graduation ceremonies, the event began with a moment of remembrance for those who lost their lives as a result of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Greetings were delivered by Taras Shapravskyi, secretary of the Bucha City Council, who conveyed congratulations on behalf of Anatolii Fedoruk, mayor of Bucha, and the local community. Encouraging graduates to dream boldly and persevere through setbacks, Shapravskyi reminded graduates that every meaningful achievement begins as an idea and becomes reality through action and determination.

Andrii Shevchuk, president of UIAS, reflected on the extraordinary circumstances under which students pursued their education.

He stated, “Students had to complete assignments without electricity, submit coursework without internet access, and interrupt classes to seek shelter during air raid alerts."

During the ceremony, Shapravskyi presented UIAS with an official commendation from the Bucha community in recognition of the institution’s active civic engagement and ongoing support of local social initiatives. He described the institute as a reliable partner that consistently contributes to the well-being and development of the community. The recognition highlighted the close cooperation between the Adventist institution and the city of Bucha during the years of war and recovery.

Dr. Adam Grześkowiak, rector of the Higher School of Theology and Humanities (Wyższa Szkoła Teologiczno-Humanistyczna) in Poland, was a special speaker during the ceremony. Recalling his visit to Bucha shortly after Russian forces withdrew from the region in 2022, he spoke about witnessing both devastation and remarkable resilience.

During the first months of the Russian offensive operation, the Polish institution opened its campus to hundreds of Ukrainian refugees, including students and residents from Bucha. Grześkowiak compared acts of solidarity to stars that become visible only in darkness, noting that difficult times reveal the depth of human compassion and support.

He also emphasized the importance of education in rebuilding a nation affected by war.

Grześkowiak's message was emphasized when graduate Tetiana Chornei, a military medic serving during the war, shared her experience of balancing frontline responsibilities with university studies. She thanked faculty and administrators for their understanding and support throughout her academic journey.

Following her remarks, Dr. Liudmyla Shtanko revealed that staff members had prayed daily for Chornei throughout her years of study. She was honored with a special “Mrs. Resilience” award in recognition of her perseverance and commitment.

Representing the Board of Founders, Roman Prodanyuk, president of the Ukrainian Union Conference, encouraged graduates to value integrity and lifelong learning. He reminded them that in a rapidly changing technological world, humanity and strong values remain essential qualities.

The ceremony recognized faculty members, staff, students, and partners for their contributions to academic excellence, research, student leadership, and institutional development.

Student speakers reflected on the transformative impact of their years at UIAS. They emphasized that beyond professional preparation, their university experience helped them discover purpose, build lifelong friendships, strengthen their faith, and develop a deeper sense of calling.

The ceremony concluded with the conferral of diplomas and a dedication litany, during which graduates reaffirmed their commitment to serve society, contribute to the rebuilding of Ukraine, and use their talents in service to God and others.

Despite the challenges of war, the Class of 2026 demonstrated that education, faith, and community continue to provide hope for Ukraine’s future.

This article was provided by the Ukrainian Union Conference.