In the heart of Ukraine, on December 21, 2023, our students radiated joy and creativity during a special Christmas and New Year celebration. Each group poured enthusiasm into unique preparations, culminating in a week of festive events within our educational community. Even amidst the somber reality of war, several groups extended the joy of the season by caroling and fundraising for the Armed Forces.
The first-year students, embodying resilience, eagerly embraced the festive spirit. Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the approaching New Year brought a sense of anticipation and hope. Thoughtful greetings and wishes for 2024 were shared, reflecting the students’ unwavering optimism. In a touching gesture, every one received a small, meaningful gift.
We extend heartfelt gratitude to our teachers for championing and realizing these heartwarming initiatives. These celebrations serve as a testament to the power of unity and hope, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of the season shines brightly. Join us in reliving these moments of joy and camaraderie as we look forward to a future filled with positivity and shared goodwill. Read some insights from each group:
“Our English lesson was fabulous. In the literal sense of the word, we felt the magic of New Year’s around us. Motivated by our foreign language teacher, Professor Sergiy Sydoriv, the students of our group sang Christmas carols and festive songs. Each of us could experience and share our New Year’s mood with one another. These were wonderful and unforgettable emotions for everyone. During this pre-Christmas time the students decided to showcase their abilities in creating a holiday mood. Everyone present was enchanted by the incredible miracle of Christmas. Our general impressions remained very positive, and we would happily repeat various native traditions for every holiday!
We express our gratitude to the Ukrainian Armed Forces—our heroes—for enabling us to celebrate Christmas in independent Ukraine.”
Lilia Chyplyk, Khrystyna Prygrodska, Preschool Education -11
On December 21, students from the “Preschool Education” program at Ivano-Frankivsk College organized a caroling fundraiser to support Ukrainian soldiers defending our country. The event involved not only students and teachers but also local businesses. The organizer of this initiative is English teacher Sergiy Sydoriv. The carolers sang praises for the birth of Jesus Christ, wished peace and well-being to the listeners, and raised UAH 5,050 in donations for the defenders of our country. We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed with funds and heart-felt words. The donations will be sent to the unit of the husband of our teacher, Maria Trokhymchuk. We express our thanks to our heroes for protecting us! Glory to Ukraine! Glory to our army!
Yulia Nerestyuk, Anna Arbaiter, Preschool Education -12
As the Christmas holidays approach, the tradition of caroling brings joy to everyone. In a country experiencing the challenges of war, it’s crucial not to forget about the defenders who await their own miracles. Today, first-year students from the Department of Preschool Education immersed us in the holiday atmosphere, preserving the memory of challenging times. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all students, teachers, our relatives, and all Ukrainians as we approach the festive season, along with wishes for victory in the coming year!
Diana Maykovska, Olha Cheverda, Preschool Education -13
On December 21, 2023, a delightful celebration of Christmas and New Year took place. Students eagerly prepared for this event, with each group contributing something interesting and special. Throughout the week, small New Year’s celebrations were organized in each educational group. Given the ongoing war in Ukraine, several groups took the initiative to sing carols whenever possible, and funds were collected for the Armed Forces. The DO-14 group approached the event with great interest. Despite the challenges of war, uncertainty, and anxiety, the New Year holidays are steadily approaching! We’ve crafted small greetings and wishes for 2024, and each one received a small memorable gift. We express sincere gratitude to our English teacher for supporting our idea and helping us bring it to life.
Mariya Semkiv, Iryna Pastukh, Preschool Education -14