On 21 September, the IV International Conference "Models of Interdisciplinary and Intersectoral Educational Programmes under Martial Law: Challenges and Options for Implementation" was held. Despite the difficult circumstances that constantly threaten the educational process, this event has become a powerful platform for discussing innovative approaches in the Ukrainian education system.

The conference was organised by leading educational institutions: I.I. Mechnikov Odesa National University, V. Hnatiuk Ternopil National Pedagogical University, Faculty of Artes Liberales of the University of Warsaw, International Foundation for Educational Policy Research, and NGO Innovative University.

Vyacheslav Truba, Rector of the I. Mechnikov ONU, gave an emotional reminder of the resilience of education in the face of war:
"The war has brought us incredible challenges, but neither missiles nor sirens can break our desire for knowledge and development. Education is our key to the future, our weapon in the fight for a better tomorrow. In these challenging times, we feel the value of science and its ability to unite and lead us forward as never before. Our goal is to build an education system that will be sustainable, flexible, capable of change and, most importantly, prepare new generations for the challenges of today."

Almost 30 scholars from different parts of Ukraine spoke at the conference, addressing topical issues of accreditation of new educational programmes, cooperation in educational services, and presented a geodemographic analysis of the Odesa region, among others.
"The war changed a lot of things in our lives, but one thing remained unchanged - thedrive for knowledge and development. Educational models in times of crisis, in particular in our geological and geographical field, require flexibility and adaptation. Today we have to introduce new educational approaches that combine traditional and innovative methods. Integration of interdisciplinary programmes and cooperation between faculties are becoming critical to support the educational process. The use of distance learning technologies, the expansion of online courses and flexible programmes are the tools that allow us to maintain the quality of education, even in the face of challenges. The crisis is forcing us to look for new ways to interact with young people, stimulating their interest in science and geography in an environment where face-to-face meetings are becoming rare. Education is the foundation on which recovery and development are built, and today it plays an important role in preparing future professionals who are able to work even in the most difficult conditions. These challenges only make us stronger and our education more sustainable," said Professor Viktoriia Yavorska, Dean of the Faculty of Geology and Geography at the I. I. Mechnikov ONU.
"The development of interdisciplinary educational programmes opens up new horizons for universities. In today's world, where knowledge and technology are developing at a rapid pace, we cannot remain within the framework of highly specialised study programmes. Interdisciplinary approaches allow students to acquire complex skills, critical thinking and the ability to integrate knowledge from different fields. It is especially important to implement such models in the context of modern challenges, such as the war, as they allow the educational process to be adapted to new realities, providing flexibility and the ability to respond quickly to labour market demands. For Ukraine, this is a key step towards integration with the European educational community and creating conditions for the development of innovations in all spheres of public life," emphasised Natalia Stukalo, Deputy Head of the National Agency for Higher Education Quality Assurance.
Andriy Buyanovsky, Head of the Department of Geography of Ukraine, Soil Science and Land Cadastre at the I. I. Mechnikov Odesa National University, emphasised the importance of the topics discussed, noting: "The atmosphere of openness that prevailed at the conference created a real discussion. This always gives rise to the truth, and we have only one truth - the victory of Ukraine. Alla Stoyanova's presentation on the human resources situation in the agricultural sector of Odesa region was particularly interesting. This topic accurately reflects not only the economic but also the social aspects of our country's development."

Alla Stoyanova spoke about the human resources challenges facing the agricultural sector in Odesa region:
"The staff shortage in our region is not just a statistic, it is a reality we face every day. However, I believe in our people. I am grateful to educators for their tireless work, for their support, for training specialists who are able to adapt to the challenges of wartime. The agricultural sector of Odesa region remains an important driver of the economy even in times of war. Together we will overcome all the difficulties and continue to develop our country."

The conference was a vivid example of how the joint efforts of scientists, educators and business representatives can create new opportunities for development even in the face of the most difficult challenges. Knowledge, innovation and joint efforts are what will help Ukraine to survive, recover and become stronger. The importance of such events cannot be overestimated: it is a place where new ideas are born, contacts are established, and, most importantly, concrete ways to our common victory are discussed.

ACTING TOGETHER FOR VICTORY!