August 2, 2022

UOW students invited to address by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy

Zelenskyy to address students around Australia

University of Wollongong (UOW) students will have the opportunity to hear from His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, on Wednesday 3 August in a live streamed and in-person event.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine plunged Europe into the worst armed conflict the continent has experienced since the end of World War II. In addition to creating immense suffering in Ukraine, this conflict has had devastating impacts on the global economy and food supply.

The event is an opportunity for President Zelensky to speak to university students in Australia – something he is eager to do to maintain awareness of the plight of his country.

Prior to the livestream from Ukraine, UOW will host a panel discussion facilitated by Professor Theo Farrell, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Student Life). Professor Farrell was previously the Head of the Department of War Studies at King's College London and is a world-renowned expert on the conduct of modern warfare.

The panel will include Phil Orchard, Associate Professor School of Humanities and Social Inquiry and Niamh Kinchin, Senior Lecturer in the School of Law, and will examine the current refugee and humanitarian situation as well as atrocities committed by Russian authorities, including forced deportations to Russia.

Hosted by the Australian National University, the live stream with President Zelenskyy will be introduced by former Australian foreign minister the Honourable Julie Bishop and will include a Q&A session facilitated by Professor Farrell.

UOW students will be able to participate in the Q&A.

“President Zelenskyy is an inspiring leader who has captured the world’s attention through his personal bravery and in the way he has mobilised the Ukrainian people to repulse the Russian invasion,” Professor Farrell said.

“This is an excellent opportunity for UOW students to hear from someone who is living at the coal face of history.”

A number of UOW student leaders and International Studies and Politics, Philosophy and Economics students have been invited to participate in the virtual event, including in the Q&A session. Other students will be able to watch a livestream of the event on YouTube.