Ukrainian student becomes a bridge between Kyiv and Schwäbisch Gmünd

Ukrainian student becomes a bridge between Kyiv and Schwäbisch Gmünd

Schwäbisch Gmündbecomes the stage for a remarkable story of intercultural exchange and support. The protagonist of this story is Iryna Leshchyk, who came to the city in October 2021 as an Erasmus student from the Kyiv National Linguistic University (KNLU). After graduating with a bachelor's degree in foreign languages ​​and literature in summer 2022, she decided to continue her academic career at PH Schwäbisch Gmünd. She initially started a teaching course, but quickly switched to the master's program in German and Interculturality/Multilingualism, where she is currently studying in depth.

In addition to focusing on her own academic goals, Leshchyk has also been actively involved in a significant project funded by the DAAD. In this project “Ukraine digital” she brought together teachers and students from the KNLU and the PH and supported Ukrainian students in Germany. She developed digital teaching and learning materials that also benefited Ukrainian children who are taught at German schools.

Important role as a mediator

Despite the challenges presented by the current political climate, Leshchyk has not allowed himself to stagnate. She coordinated the activities between Kiev and Schwäbisch Gmünd and thereby became the key person for the exchange between the two universities. In honoring Leshchyk, Professor Daniel Rellstab, Vice Rector of the PH, emphasized the important role she played not only between universities, but also directly in the classroom. “Because she supervised Ukrainian students at the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Realschule at the time, she was able to provide important insights into what help Ukrainian students really need,” he said.

In addition to her studies, Leshchyk spends her time and energy helping refugees integrate into Germany. She teaches at the Agnes von Hohenstaufen School and looks after young people from different countries during the pre-qualification year. The aim of their work is not only to give students the language skills they need to find their way in their new environment, but also to create social bonds and a sense of community.

Leshchyk thus proves to be an essential voice and contact point for support services and helps to build bridges between two cultures. Their efforts are a powerful example of the positive impact international students can have on local communities.

For further information on the developments in Schwäbisch Gmünd and Leshchyk's contribution, see the current reporting on www.remszeitung.de.