Exiled university prepares for new academic year, expecting influx of students from missile-battered cities

The Vasyl Stus Donetsk National University (DonNU), once Ukraine's first relocated university, anticipates a 50% rise in enrollment this academic year as students from across the nation travel westward from areas devastated by Russian missile attacks. Transplanted from its eastern Ukrainian base to the city of Vinnytsia in central-western Ukraine after being overrun by Russian forces in 2014, DonNU is now in its 12th academic year in its new location.

Rector Illia Hadzhinov admits that when Russian-backed proxies raised their flag over DonNU's main building, the university felt "dead." However, he believes the relocation was motivated by patriotism and the determination to continue despite adversity. DonNU's experienced staff and faculty have managed to adapt to the challenges of relocation, leading to a gradual increase in student numbers.

With Russia's missile attacks becoming increasingly destructive, parents are seeking safer environments for their children's education. DonNU's proximity to the Donetsk Oblast, where many students have deep ties, is contributing to the enrollment growth. Despite the difficulties encountered during the initial transition, including a lack of basic amenities in the former jewelry factory used as a temporary campus, DonNU has managed to establish itself as a resilient educational institution.