On June 21, 2024, the State University “Zhytomyr Polytechnic” hosted a round table dedicated to cooperation in the field of scientific research and environmental education for the preservation of unique ecosystems of Polissia and the Chornobyl Exclusion Zone.

The event was one of the activities within the framework of the international project TransLearnN (Transformational Learning Network for Resilience – Enabling Ukrainian higher education to ensure a sustainable and robust reconstruction of (post-war) Ukraine).

The round table was attended by scientific and pedagogical staff of the Department of Ecology and Environmental Technologies of the university, as well as representatives of a number of objects of the nature reserve fund of Ukraine. The participants discussed current challenges in preserving the biodiversity of Polissia, peculiarities of environmental monitoring in conditions of radiation contamination, opportunities for joint scientific research, development of educational programs taking into account practical experience, and prospects for creating joint international projects.

This meeting became an important step in achieving the goals of the TransLearnN project, which aims to strengthen the social and political leadership role of Ukrainian universities in supporting the sustainable transformation of Ukraine. The creation of an inter- and transdisciplinary educational network within the project will contribute to innovative approaches in teaching and applied research, as well as support Ukrainian universities on the path to sustainable management.

As a result of the round table, three memorandums of cooperation were signed with the Chornobyl Radiation and Ecological Biosphere Reserve, Polissia Nature Reserve, and Drevliansky Nature Reserve. These agreements provide for the development of scientific, educational, and applied cooperation in the field of nature conservation, biodiversity, and the introduction of environmental innovations, which fully corresponds to the goals of the TransLearnN project.

Zhytomyr Polytechnic expresses sincere gratitude to the Drevliansky Nature Reserve, Polissia Nature Reserve, and Chornobyl Radiation and Ecological Biosphere Reserve for their fruitful cooperation and readiness for joint actions for the sake of preserving the unique natural objects of Ukraine.