Ukrainian Free University concludes its 80th anniversary celebrations

MUNICH - The Ukrainian Free University (UFU) officially concluded its 80th anniversary celebrations on December 12, 2001. Gathered in the main auditorium of the university were students and professors of the UFU and neighboring German universities, as well as members of the Ukrainian community of Munich and guests from various European countries.

In his introductory remarks Dr. Leonid Rudnytzky, rector of the UFU, provided a brief overview of the university's achievements during the jubilee year 2001. He stressed the ongoing cooperation between the UFU and other institutions in Europe and the United States, and thanked all organizations and individuals who contributed to the well-being of the university.

Special greetings to the university were conveyed by the Vasyl Serdeha, Ukrainian consul in Munich, and Dr. Hansjuergen Doss, member of the German Parliament.

The keynote address, titled "Perspectives on Education," was delivered by Prof. Gerhard Stockinger, member of the Bavarian House of Representatives and honorary doctor of the UFU.

Dr. Stockinger focused on the latest developments in the area of education, and delineated the role and function of the UFU for the near future. While praising the university's contributions to both Bavarian and Ukrainian cultures, he offered a number of cogent suggestions regarding its future activities.

The official part of the program concluded with the singing of the venerable academic hymn "Gaudeamus Igitur," which was followed by a wine and cheese reception.

Over 200 students are currently enrolled at the university, 90 percent of whom receive scholarships from either a German foundation, such as the Hanns-Seidel-Stiftung, or from the Ukrainian Free University Foundation in New York.

Copyright © The Ukrainian Weekly, January 20, 2002, No. 3, Vol. LXX

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