The Ambassador of Ukraine to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ivan Kholostenko, paid a courtesy visit to Bingham University, Karu, where he reaffirmed Ukraine’s longstanding academic ties with Nigeria and formally presented the “Ukrainian Bookshelf” to the University Library. 

Ambassador Kholostenko described the partnership between Ukraine and Bingham University as a meaningful one, particularly in the area of student mobility. He noted that hundreds of Nigerian students have studied in Ukrainian universities over the years, many of whom regard Ukraine as a second home.

He applauded Bingham University’s openness to international collaboration and expressed gratitude for hosting the Ukrainian Bookshelf, a project launched globally by the First Lady of Ukraine, Mrs. Olena Zelensky, to promote Ukrainian literature and culture across libraries worldwide.

“Books carry identity, memory, humour, pain, and dreams,” the Ambassador said, explaining that despite the destruction of schools, libraries and universities during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the country’s culture continues to survive and connect with the world. He commended the University’s leadership for preparing the space and supporting the initiative.

Ambassador Kholostenko expressed hope that the books would inspire greater cultural understanding and strengthen ties between Nigeria and Ukraine. “On behalf of the people of Ukraine, our writers, educators, and students, I am honoured to present this collection to Bingham University. May it strengthen the friendship between our nations,” he said.

During the event, the Third Secretary of the Ukrainian Embassy, Mr. Daniil Shevchuk, provided a brief review of the 11 books donated to Bingham University. He explained that the collection covers key aspects of Ukrainian history, culture, literature, and national identity, offering readers insight into the country’s societal values and contemporary experiences. Mr. Shevchuk said the books were carefully selected to support learning, promote cultural exchange, and help students develop a deeper understanding of Ukraine beyond current global events.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Haruna Kuje Ayuba, welcomed Ambassador Kholostenko and expressed the University’s appreciation for the years of collaboration facilitated by the Ukrainian Embassy. He noted that Bingham University, although relatively young, has benefited significantly from its partnership with Ukraine, being the first Nigerian institution to formalize such a relationship with Sumy State University Ukraine.

Prof. Ayuba thanked the Embassy for supporting Bingham University students, particularly through visa facilitation and expressed the University’s readiness to host Ukrainian experts for public lectures on Ukraine’s history, culture and contemporary challenges.

He highlighted the role of the Ambassador Bulus Lolo Centre for Diplomacy, Peace, Conflict and Plural Studies in advancing global dialogue and stated that the Centre would benefit from direct engagement with Ukrainian academics, especially on issues related to diplomacy and conflict resolution.

In addition, the Vice-Chancellor also appreciated the Embassy’s donation of books, noting that they would enhance students’ understanding of Ukraine’s realities. He expressed hope for peace in Ukraine so that academic cooperation can expand further.

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Musa Dankyau, called for renewed virtual engagements with Ukrainian scholars to deliver lectures across a range of disciplines. He noted that technology provides an avenue for sustained academic cooperation despite global disruptions.

He added that the College of Medicine, Jos Campus, would particularly welcome expert-led lectures on critical medical topics such as mass casualty management and surgical procedures.

Giving the closing remarks, the Registrar, Mr. Bello Daburi Misal, recalled being involved in the establishment of the partnership between the University and Sumy State University in 2018 when he served as the Coordinator of the Advancement Office. He acknowledged that the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine disrupted the momentum of the collaboration, but commended both sides for sustaining the relationship despite the challenges. He thanked the Ambassador for the visit and expressed optimism that new channels of cooperation would emerge while praying for a speedy end to the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. 

The visit concluded with an exchange of souvenirs between the University and the Embassy, symbolizing the continued commitment to collaboration.

In attendance were; Mr. Gana Makun representing the University Librarian, Director of Linkages and Transnational Studies, Ms. Monica Ankeli, and Director of ICT, Mr. Kunle Ifawoye.

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Directorate of Public Affairs 

Office of the Vice-Chancellor 

Bingham University