Remembering to Overcome: Academic Advisor Hryhorii Boiko Holds a Memorial Discussion with 4th-Year Veterinary Students
On May 8, Ukraine joins the international community in commemorating the victims of World War II. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Day of Remembrance and Victory, which is not a celebration, but a solemn reflection and expression of gratitude to all who fought against Nazism from 1939 to 1945.
To mark this occasion, a memorial-themed educational session was held on May 14, 2025 for the students of the 4th year, Group 10, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, led by their academic advisor Associate Professor Hryhorii Boiko. The meeting was part of a scheduled advisory hour, providing students with an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion about historical truth and current challenges.
During the session, it was emphasized that World War II was not only a military conflict but a profound human tragedy. Ukraine suffered the loss of over 8 million lives, many of whom were civilians. More than 7 million Ukrainians were mobilized into the Red Army, and about half of them were killed. Ukrainians fought not only in the Soviet army but also in the ranks of other Allied forces and within resistance movements.
Hryhorii Boiko drew attention to the importance of preserving historical memory through a European humanistic lens, which prioritizes dignity, peace, and remembrance over the glorification of military triumphs. The red poppy has become the universal symbol of remembrance, and the official slogan of the commemoration is “We Remember! We Prevail!” — a phrase that resonates deeply amid Ukraine’s ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.
The students actively participated in the discussion, exploring the role of Ukrainians in WWII, the tragedies caused by both Nazi and Stalinist regimes, the significance of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, and the consequences of Soviet occupation. It was noted that the expulsion of Nazi forces did not bring freedom to Ukraine, but ushered in another wave of repression, deportations, and famine.
A special focus was placed on the parallels with today’s war. Once again, Ukrainians stand at the forefront, defending Europe from a new form of totalitarianism — Ruscism, an ideology rooted in historical distortion, glorification of war, and aggressive propaganda.
“We must remember to prevent history from repeating itself. Today, history is being written before our eyes, and each of us is responsible for understanding and preserving the truth,” noted Associate Professor Boiko.
At the end of the meeting, students also discussed their academic performance, preparation for the final examination period, and the logistics of the upcoming summer internship.
The session created a space for sincere dialogue and reflection — a powerful reminder that education is not only about knowledge, but also about shaping worldviews, values, and the capacity to stand firm in the face of adversity.
Hryhorii Boiko
Group Mentor, Associate Professor of the Department of Vertebrate Physiology and Pharmacology
