Visit of the Estonian delegation to NUBiP of Ukraine to discuss prospects for international cooperation and experience in reforming higher education
On February 03, 2026, the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine hosted a delegation from the Republic of Estonia headed by representatives of the organization Universities Estonia (Rectors' Council of Estonia). The meeting was held within the framework of international cooperation with the Union of rectors of Ukraine.
On the Estonian side Hanna KANEP — the general secretary of Universities Estonia, a non-profit association founded in 2000 by six leading Estonian public universities, including the University of Tartu, Tallinn Technical University and others, took part in the visit. Tiit LAND — rector of Tallinn University of technology (TalTech) and Chairman of the Council of rectors of Estonia and Jaak AAVIKSOO — an independent project consultant, former Minister of education and science of Estonia (2011-2014), former Minister of defense (2007-2011), former rector of the University of Tartu (1998-2007) and Tallinn University of technology (2015-2020), member of the Estonian Academy of Sciences.
The Ukrainian side was represented by Vadym TKACHUK — rector of NUBiP of Ukraine, Oleksandr LABENKO — vice-rector for scientific and pedagogical work and international activities, Stanislav NIKOLAENKO — president of the NUBiP of Ukraine and first deputy Chairman of the Union of rectors of Ukraine. Petro KULIKOV — chairman of the Union of rectors of Ukraine and the Academic Council of the Kyiv National University of construction and architecture, also took part in the event.
Rector of NUBiP of Ukraine Vadym TKACHUK presented the guests with detailed information about the university, its history, structure, scientific achievements and strategic development priorities. The presentation covered the main areas of activity, the role of the University in the national higher education system, as well as prospects for entering the European educational space and strengthening international activities.
The Estonian side presented a unique experience of transformation of the national higher education system, which began in the early 1990s after gaining independence. Universities Estonia demonstrated how Estonian universities made a strategic choice to find resources and reform the educational model, which contributed to European integration.
Holding the meeting on the basis of NUBiP of Ukraine confirms the high international status of the University and its role in the development of international educational cooperation. The meeting showed mutual interest in deepening the partnership between the Universities of Ukraine and Estonia. The parties discussed opportunities for academic mobility, joint research projects and exchange of experience in higher education management; special attention was paid to the development of research activities and strengthening the international competitiveness of universities. The Estonian experience of successful reform of the educational system is of particular interest to Ukrainian universities in the context of European integration and modernization of national education.
