Researchers from the Department of Horticulture have joined the international PROGRESS project
On 25 September 2026, academic and teaching staff from the Department of Horticulture named after Prof. V. L. Symyrenko at the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine took part in the latest phase of the ‘Preparing Eastern Partnership Countries for the European Green Deal (PROGRESS)’ project as part of the activities under the ‘GREEN-HORT’ grant. The event took place at the Mukachevo Vocational College of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine.
The Prof. V. L. Symyrenko Department of Horticulture was represented by Professors Volodymyr Mezhenskyi and Lyudmyla Shevchuk, Associate Professor Yurii Andrusyk and Yana Tereshchenko.
The participants delivered presentations on topical issues concerning the adaptation of modern horticultural production to climate change. Particular attention was paid to practical approaches to enhancing the resilience and efficiency of growing major fruit and berry crops. Researchers from the department presented their findings and latest developments, using apple, raspberry, garden strawberry and walnut as examples.
The materials presented were aimed primarily at raising awareness amongst farmers and horticultural producers regarding the current challenges associated with climate change, as well as the possibilities for adapting cultivation techniques to new agro-climatic conditions. Approaches were discussed that combine scientific research, producers’ practical experience and the principles of sustainable development, in line with the key guidelines of the European Green Deal.
Another key component of the event was a presentation of a range of initiatives by women leaders in the agricultural sector, aimed at strengthening their role in the development of modern agriculture, the dissemination of innovative practices and the implementation of sustainable production principles.
The event’s programme was not limited to scientific presentations and discussions. A practical element of the programme was a visit to the ‘Konik’ agricultural enterprise – one of Ukraine’s leading horticultural farms. Participants had the opportunity to gain first-hand insight into modern horticultural technologies, the organisation of production processes and practical solutions applied in high-tech commercial horticulture.
The participation of researchers from the Prof. V. L. Symyrenko Department of Horticulture in the activities of the PROGRESS project and the GREEN-HORT grant is a key component in bringing together education, science and industry. Such meetings provide a platform for the exchange of experience between researchers, educators and producers, promote the dissemination of modern scientific developments amongst farmers, and help to shape practical approaches to the development of sustainable, resource-efficient and climate-adapted horticulture in Ukraine.
