Ukrainian ambassador pays a visit to SETU

THE Ukrainian Ambassador to Ireland, Larysa Gerasko, paid a formal visit to South East Technological University Carlow campus recently, attending an event that brought together diplomats, academics and students in a reflection on the enduring bonds between the two nations.

Ambassador Gerasko was received on campus by SETU’s chief operations officer David Denieffe and university chaplain Fr Martin Smith, alongside representatives of the institution’s Ukrainian Student Society. The occasion provided a platform for dialogue on the role of education and cultural connection during a period of sustained conflict in Ukraine.

Addressing those gathered, ambassador Gerasko spoke on the significance of maintaining strong international relationships, noting that the ties between Ukraine and Ireland have deepened considerably in recent years. She underscored the value of educational institutions as places for solidarity and cross-cultural understanding.

Students from the Ukrainian Student Society gave a presentation on the society’s work promoting Ukrainian culture and providing community support on campus. A panel discussion, chaired by Fr Martin Smith, followed and featured ambassador Gerasko alongside students Ihor Melashchenko, Anastasiia Lysiak, Vladyslav Trushkovskyi and Yelyzaveta Aralova.

The discussion touched on a range of subjects, including the experience of settling into life in Ireland, the importance of maintaining cultural identity abroad and the realities of Ukraine’s ongoing diplomatic efforts. The students spoke candidly of their futures and of the challenges of building a career while their homeland remains at war. An open question and answer session extended the conversation to a wider audience.

The visit also incorporated a cultural exhibition titled Brave, featuring documentary photography by the Ukrainian photographic partnership LIBKOS. The works depicted daily life in Ukraine following the full-scale invasion, offering a powerful account of civilian experience. A companion exhibition, Unissued Diplomas, paid tribute to Ukrainian students who have lost their lives as a result of the conflict.

SETU has in recent years grown its international student body considerably and university representatives reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for students of all backgrounds.