Inspiring meetings with students of the University of Prishtina: Connection, solidarity, and dialogue

Over the past weeks, we had the pleasure, together with refugees, to visit several faculties of the University of Prishtina. These encounters turned into open spaces for dialogue and mutual understanding, where students had the opportunity to hear firsthand the experiences of refugees – real stories of displacement, daily struggles, and the journey of building a new life in an unfamiliar country. This sincere exchange deepened empathy and solidarity among participants.

At the Faculty of Philosophy, we met with students from the Department of Political Science, where refugees Rami from Syria and Tetiana from Ukraine shared their journeys as refugees in Kosovo. Through their open testimonies, they brought to light the everyday challenges, moments of uncertainty, and the hope that has kept them going throughout this path. The students engaged with questions and discussions, showing a deep interest in the realities behind statistics and headlines.

In another meeting with second-year Political Science students, alongside her migration experience, Tetiana also spoke extensively about Ukraine, its history, culture, and the events that have shaped the lives of its people. Discussions focused on the current situation and the consequences the war has had on the Ukrainian community, creating a meaningful dialogue and giving students a clearer picture of the reality her country is facing.

In collaboration with the Department of Journalism at the Faculty of Philology, we had the opportunity to meet with students who expressed interest in the challenges journalists face during times of war and crisis. Two journalists from Ukraine, Iryna Synelnyk and Lyudmila Makey, who are currently refugees in Kosovo, shared their professional experiences and the difficulties of confronting disinformation and media manipulation. They also spoke about the culture and history of their homeland, bringing warmth and a human dimension to the encounter that touched everyone present.

A special moment was the workshop held at the Faculty of Arts, where a Ukrainian refugee presented the traditional art of Petrykivka, bringing color and life into the academic environment. With passion, she shared the techniques of this art with the students, and together they created pieces that reflected not only the beauty of form and color but also the story and soul of a culture that endures great challenges. This was a vibrant experience that created new connections and inspired all participants.

Each meeting was attended by around 25-30 students, who showed strong interest and engagement. The discussions were lively and interactive, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt heard and involved. This open communication helped strengthen understanding and connections between students and refugees. The experiences and dialogue shared during these sessions remain an inspiration to all participants and a step toward more sensitive and respectful coexistence.

We remain committed to creating spaces where refugees can share their experiences and connect more deeply with the communities where they live. These meetings with University of Prishtina students stand as a testament to the power of open dialogue in helping communities build bridges of lasting understanding and solidarity.