Edge Hill University marks three years of Ukraine Institute Twinning scheme

Edge Hill University is marking three years of twinning with Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University in Ukraine. 

Edge Hill has been working closely with Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University (NLU) in Kharkiv since March 2022 as part of the Ukraine Institute Twinning scheme. 

 The scheme, organised by Cormack Consultancy Group (CCG) and Universities UK , was set up to support staff and students at Ukrainian universities during the during the war, to strengthen academic collaboration and boost resilience. 

Jennifer Giblin, associate head, School of Law and Criminal Justice said: "It has been a privilege to have worked with our Ukrainian colleagues at NLU over the past three years.

"Their extraordinary resilience and ability to remain operational, despite the university being located close to the frontline, and colleagues' enduring missile attacks, power outages and displacement is truly inspirational. 

 “It is difficult to articulate how impactful the twinning partnership has been, many colleagues have become dear friends, and I look forward to continuing to develop our relationship." 

 Edge Hill is one of 30 universities in the UK partnered with a Ukrainian institution. Funded by a £100,000 grant from Universities UK and the Twin Hope campaign, the School of Law and Criminal Justice has worked with NLU colleagues to co-deliver projects including a summer school and a UK Parliamentary research and networking event. 

Olena Chub, associate professor at Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University, said: "This twinning became not only a productive work, but a firm academic friendship.

"We are becoming aware of British legal educational practices and standards.

"Among other things, Summer School's participants got access to the library funds, and a chance to contribute to the edited collection on international law after the Ukraine war.  

 “The dual degree programme is underway, arming students with highly valuable diplomas to conquer contemporary and post-war challenges. This likeminded support not only helps us to stand resilient but also reassures how strong the academic freedom and support can be.” 

 For 2025 Edge Hill University and Yaroslav Mudryi National Law University has secured a further £50,000 grant, managed by Mosaik, to develop and launch a dual degree programme in LLM Artificial Intelligence, Digital and Cyber Law.   

Professor Jay Cullen, head of School of Law and Criminal Justice, said:  "Over the past three years our school has developed a close bond with colleagues in Kharkiv. The resilience and spirit of our Ukrainian colleagues has been remarkable, and we look forward to continuing our twinning partnership."