Professor shows support for Ukraine in community event

�鶹AV’s partner university in Ukraine has praised the growing relationship between the two institutions.

Professor Christian Dunn, Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Sustainability, recently represented the University at an event in Church Stretton, Shropshire, where residents gathered for ‘Support Ukraine – Sign the Flag of Hope’. Participants were invited to write messages of solidarity for the people of Okhtyrka, in Ukraine’s Sumy region, on a flag with a remarkable history.

The flag had flown in Okhtyrka on the day of the Russian invasion, before a local priest risked his life to save and hide it. Now, it carries hundreds of messages from the UK and will soon be returned to its home city.

The event was organised by Strettons Ukraine Relief Effort, a volunteer group that has been delivering humanitarian aid to Ukraine since 2022.

Christian added his own message, “Slava Ukraini!”, symbolising Bangor’s ongoing partnership with Khmelnytskyi National University through the UK-Ukraine Twinning Initiative.

Two individuals standing in an office with three emblems on the wall behind them. The central emblem features a globe and text in Cyrillic, while the other two emblems display different symbols — From left: Associate Professor Serhii Matiukh, Rector of Khmelnytskyi National University and Professor Christian Dunn

A person stands in front of a large blue and yellow flag, resembling the Ukrainian flag, covered with handwritten messages. A nearby sign reads, 'You are invited to sign the flag. Support Ukraine.' — Christian at the ‘Support Ukraine – Sign the Flag of Hope’ event in Church Stretton

Earlier this year Christian visited Khmelnytskyi National University to collaborate on a research project with its researchers and make a BBC documentary.

Thanking Christian for his support, Professor Kateryna Skyba, Vice-Rector for Scientific and Pedagogical Work at Khmelnytskyi National University, said, “This act of solidarity highlights how the partnership between our universities are developing into broader friendships, uniting communities across borders. It also reflects the continuing commitment of UK partners to support Ukraine in its struggle for freedom.”

Christian, said, "I'm from Shropshire so it was really good to attend an event in my home county that linked Ukraine and Bangor. It was an unforgettable experience visiting Ukraine during the war, as was the friendship offered to me by our collaborators at Khmelnytskyi National University. Our universities have a lot in common, and I'm genuinely excited to build on our research strengths together."

Professor Oliver Turnbull, Vice-Provost (Global Engagement) added, "Our partnership with Khmelnytskyi National University is very special for us at Bangor, and we have ambitious plans for the coming years - as we continue to stand fully behind the people of Ukraine!"