Chernihiv region is recovering not only with buildings and roads– it is recovering through its people, their strength, mutual support, and faith in the future. This was precisely the focus of discussion on August 27, 2026, in Chernihiv during the round table “Chernihiv Region – 35: Strategy for Equality, Inclusion, and Gender-Responsive Recovery.”

The event, organized by the Chernihiv Regional Council and the NGO “Union of Women of Chernihiv Region,” became a platform for sincere dialogue and experience sharing. The round table brought together representatives of local self-government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and higher education institutions – people who genuinely care about the fate and future of the Chernihiv region.

Chernihiv Polytechnic National University was represented at the event by Olha Melnyk, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs and Social Development, and Olena Akymenko, Professor at the Department of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Forestry.

As part of the thematic module “Academic Leadership and European Integration of Higher Education Institutions,” Olha Melnyk presented the experience of the university’s Gender Education Centre, emphasizing the strengthening of cooperation between higher education institutions, government bodies, and the public sector regarding the development of gender equality and the university’s expert capacity in advancing gender education. Such cooperation is particularly crucial today, as a strong community is born where there is trust, partnership, and readiness to act together. Olena Akymenko delivered a presentation titled “Resilience Without Borders: Architecture of Accessibility in Frontline Communities of Chernihiv Region.”

A heart-warming moment of the event was the awarding of certificates of appreciation to the representatives of Chernihiv Polytechnic National University by the NGO “Union of Women of Chernihiv Region.” This recognition is more than just words of gratitude; it is an acknowledgment of daily work, dedication, support for gender initiatives, and contributions to building an equal, safe, and inclusive society.

The participation of Chernihiv Polytechnic National University’s representatives in the round table once again demonstrates the university’s active position– not only as a centre of knowledge, but also as a space for change, partnership, leadership, and social responsibility.