On Friday, May 22, a special ceremony took place in the historic Leopoldina Aula in Wrocław. As officially announced by the University of Wrocław (UWr) press service, the distinguished Ukrainian writer, poet, and social activist Serhiy Zhadan received the highest academic honor – an honorary doctorate. This is a tribute not only to his outstanding literary achievements but also to his steadfast stance in the face of Ukraine’s challenging contemporary history.
This event is further proof of the strong ties between the Polish academic community and creators and scientists from across the eastern border.
Creativity that diagnoses the soul of a nation
Serhiy Zhadan is a figure of international renown. His work has been published in translation for years in major publishing markets across Europe. The author’s versatility means that his novels and plays regularly receive acclaimed stage and film adaptations. Polish readers are well-known to him – Zhadan is a recipient of the prestigious Angelus Central European Literature Award, among other awards.
During Friday’s ceremony, a detailed account of which was published on the official website of the University of Wrocław, the laureate’s profile and achievements were presented by Professor Justyna Ziarkowska, Dean of the Faculty of Modern Languages.
She highlighted the foundations of Zhadan’s writing. She emphasized that the most important feature of his work is his masterful capture of the dramatic social and identity transformations that Ukraine underwent after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Moreover, his contemporary works become an exceptionally important artistic testimony to the experience of war and his steadfast resistance to Russian aggression.
University of Wrocław and cooperation with Ukraine
Awarding the title of doctor honoris causa to the Ukrainian writer is a perfect fit with the long-term strategy and mission of the Wrocław university.. University of Wrocław has been actively cooperating with Ukrainian scientists for a long time and plays a key role in building international educational bridges.
These activities focus on several key areas:
- Active education of Ukrainian youth, giving them real development prospects;
- Providing academics from Ukraine with specific directions for cooperation and integration with leading universities from Western Europe;
- Creating a safe space for exchanging ideas and cultivating cultural heritage.
Commentary by the editors of Nowiny Wschodnie
Honoring Serhiy Zhadan with an honorary doctorate in Wrocław is an event with dual significance. On the one hand, it is a tribute to a brilliant writer whose words carry a powerful impact. On the other, it is a clear, cultural signal of solidarity from the Polish academic community with the struggling Ukraine. Zhadan, himself an active volunteer and the voice of his generation, proves that culture does not fall silent in times of crisis but becomes a weapon in the fight for identity and freedom.
Source: University of Wroclaw
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