Ukrainian president addresses UPEI students
On Wednesday, June 22, the University of Prince Edward Island had the honour of participating in an interactive online event with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who delivered a live video address from Ukraine to students across Canada. UPEI was one of nine universities on the Zoom call with President Zelenskyy, with approximately 50 students, alumni, faculty, and staff gathering in Lecture Theatre A at the Atlantic Veterinary College. Along with the in-person events across Canada, more than 6,800 people tuned into the live stream on YouTube.
The Ukrainian president was hosted by the University of Toronto’s Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy and the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister of Canada. Freeland introduced President Zelenskyy and noted the important lesson Ukraine is giving the world saying that “Ukraine is our teacher, and the rest of the world’s democracies are its students.”
During his remarks, President Zelenskyy explained the impact the war is having on the everyday lives of Ukrainians. He stated that the goals and values he has for his country have not changed since he took office but says “the way we work and live is now different.” He stressed that the war is about “fighting for our future and for our freedom.”
“We are fighting for the same values of anyone living in the democratic world,” President Zelenskyy said. He added that Ukraine’s allies need to continue providing financial support to his country and imposing sanctions on Russia. He called on university students to take action by participating in rallies, posting on social media, and speaking with friends and family to “not let them forget about the war and Ukraine.”
An interactive question and answer period followed President Zelenskyy’s remarks, with a student from each university on the call having the opportunity to ask him a question. UPEI Student Union President Adam MacKenzie asked the final question, “President Zelenskyy, seeing as you were an actor not very long ago, what was it that made you want to change careers and lead your country during such a pivotal time?”
President Zelenskyy, responded that family is extremely important to him and in order to protect them, he felt compelled to share his gifts and give back to the country that he loves so much. He added that he was very proud and honoured to be entrusted by the Ukrainian people to lead his country during such a challenging time.
After the Q&A was over, Dr. Greg Naterer, UPEI’s Vice-President Academic and Research had an opportunity to thank President Zelensky for taking time to address students and reiterate UPEI’s support for Ukraine. “On behalf of our entire university community, we stand behind you and all Ukrainians in your courageous fight for freedom and democracy,” said Dr. Naterer, after which President Zelenskyy showed his appreciation by placing his hand over his heart.
For those who missed the live event, you can watch it on the Munk School’s YouTube Channel (@munkschool): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZe_kji363g
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is now into its fourth month. UPEI stands in support of those calling for its end and is unwavering in our solidarity with the victims of this war. UPEI, in partnership with the UPEI Student Union, has hung the Ukrainian flag in the W.A. Murphy Student Centre concourse as a reminder of this solidarity.
