A meeting on Higher Education in Ukraine

I was asked to speak at a high level meeting on post-secondary education at V. Dahl East Ukrainian National University yesterday afternoon that was attended by senior faculty and high level politicians.  Those of us speaking were told to keep our remarks to 5 minutes.  I tried hard to do so, and didn't exceed the time limit much, if at all.  It was a challenge, though, as Dr. Krsek had to interpret for me.  Not everyone kept their remarks brief, however, and spoke at considerable length.  One politician took up a significant portion of the meeting by talking extensively and then interrupting other speakers and commenting on their remarks.  When he got tired of talking, he just left.  He never heard my remarks, or the remarks of other educators, including a woman works with and advocates for children and youth with physical disabilities.  I thought that was rather inconsiderate of him.

I spoke about the educational rights of students with disabilities in the United States and the supports they receive in order to succeed at universities.  I ended my emphasizing the need for Ukraine to provide access to higher education to all it citizens.