THE THIRD MISSION OF UKRAINIAN UNIVERSITIES IN THE CONTEXT OF WAR AND RECOVERY

Abstract

The article explores the evolution of the concept of the “third mission” of universities, which goes beyond the traditional functions of education and research to encompass social, economic, cultural, and civic engagement with society. It analyzes international approaches to implementing the third mission, highlighting models of universities as centers of social innovation, entrepreneurship, regional development, and civic participation. Examples from the United Kingdom, the United States, Finland, and developing countries illustrate how universities have become key agents of change in their communities and have built resilient ecosystems of cooperation with business, government, and civil society.

Special attention is given to the Ukrainian context, where the war has led to a rethinking of the role of higher education institutions as hubs of support, cohesion, adaptation, and resilience. The article highlights how Ukrainian universities have transformed their third mission during times of crisis through humanitarian aid, shelter for internally displaced persons, participation in the digitalization of public administration, and the implementation of educational and analytical projects for the state and communities. The experience of institutions such as the Kyiv School of Economics and the Ukrainian Catholic University demonstrates institutional resilience, flexibility, and social responsibility.

In the post-war period, universities are expected to play a critical role in training new professionals, restoring human capital, providing expert support to the government, contributing to regional reconstruction, and helping to retain youth in Ukraine. In this context, the third mission acquires a new strategic dimension—becoming an integrated component of higher education institutions’ operations and a vital instrument for building a sustainable society. The article also examines policy and governance mechanisms for stimulating third mission activities. The author argues that the third mission should not be perceived as an additional task, but rather as a full-fledged sphere of university engagement that strengthens public trust, promotes resilience, and increases the impact of higher education on national transformation.