“I believe that we must provide future generations with the knowledge that promotes reconciliation, mutual respect and understanding.”
Who are you and what is your role at The European Wergeland Centre?
My name is Iryna, and I am Head of the Early Childhood and School Section. I work to help The European Wergeland Centre build a more democratic and inclusive school and kindergarten environment for children in a range of countries across Southern, Central and Eastern Europe. I have worked on projects in countries like Ukraine, Poland and Greece, to name a few.
What made you want to work at the European Wergeland Centre?
I grew up with a mother who was a mathematics and IT teacher in Ukraine. School has therefore always been a natural and familiar part of my life. I am passionate about education and its role in promoting sustainable democratic development. After more than 15 years at the Wergeland Centre, I see how many positive changes we contribute to through our work. Here, I also get to use my background in international studies and diplomacy in an international working environment.
In addition, we are a diverse and vibrant group of people with different backgrounds and experiences, and my fantastic colleagues are a big part of what motivates me every single day!
Which topics or questions within democracy, human rights and education are you especially passionate about?
Education for democracy and human rights is a field that is constantly evolving, in line with the new challenges facing society. It is particularly important to me to work with youth participation, the development of critical thinking and resilience against disinformation – especially in light of rapid technological developments.
Dialogue and non-violent communication when discussing difficult and controversial topics are also very important to me. Teaching history from multiple perspectives is becoming increasingly important. This is a topic that is close to my heart as a Ukrainian, with a family history shaped by the difficult Polish-Ukrainian past. I believe we must provide future generations with knowledge that promotes reconciliation, mutual respect and understanding between people.
What concerns me most right now, however, is supporting Ukraine in its fight for freedom and democracy. It is crucial that Ukraine not only survives Russia’s brutal war, but also continues to strengthen democratic values, human rights and the rule of law, while ensuring that Ukrainians have genuine opportunities to participate in political processes.
That is why I am proud that we at The European Wergeland Centre actively cooperate with Ukrainian kindergartens and schools to provide children and young people with concrete experiences of democracy, participation and active citizenship.
What is something people are often surprised to learn about you?
That I cannot swim 😊
What is a book everyone should read?
There are so many great books, and I never manage to read enough. The most recent book I read and would recommend is The Sami Problem by Kathrine Nedrejord, which explores what it means to be Sámi. The Museum of Abandoned Secrets by Oksana Zabuzhko is another powerful story I would recommend to those who want to learn more about Ukraine and its history, from the Second World War to the Orange Revolution.
What advice would you give to a younger version of yourself?
Fear less and dare more! And always keep learning something new.
