Representatives of our department—Head of the Department, Professor Olena Fedorenko, and Professor Yaroslav Pitak—participated in activities held as part of the project “Preservation and Promotion of Donetsk Region’s Ceramic Heritage”.

Professor Olena Fedorenko participated in the online roundtable discussion “Ceramics of Donetsk Region: Present and Future. Regional and National Aspects”, which facilitated lively dialogue among ceramic manufacturers, business support organizations, and representatives of state and regional authorities. During the event, Professor Fedorenko shared insights into the department’s advanced research, presented innovative ideas and opportunities for implementing advancements in the ceramic sector, and emphasized the importance of communication between scientists, manufacturers, and government officials. She also expressed support for Donetsk ceramicists who have remained in the region and those forced to relocate. Special attention was devoted to training and development programs to ensure a supply of highly qualified specialists for the ceramic industry, as well as the broader need to promote technical education in Ukraine.

Professor Pitak took part in the concluding interregional forum in Dnipro, where he reported on modern developments in materials and techniques for creating innovative forms and textures in ceramics. He stressed the need to provide access to new technologies and materials for ceramic production and addressed the challenges of training ceramic specialists. Professor Pitak noted that employers in the ceramic industry are actively involved in the discussion of educational and professional programs, with their feedback and needs being considered in curriculum development. This collaboration is expected to enhance the quality and competitiveness of domestic ceramic products.

Currently, Ukraine is implementing a new project, “Preservation and Promotion of Donetsk Region’s Ceramic Heritage”, supported by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the Public Organization “Business Sector Development of Ukraine”. The project aims to support the development of ceramics as a cultural heritage and a key factor in the economic recovery of the Donetsk region. Meetings held within this project provide additional opportunities for communication between educators, researchers, and employers, offering industry representatives platforms for collaboration, skill development, and networking with key stakeholders.

This initiative marks an important step in forming a positive narrative about Donetsk, reflecting not only its economic potential but also its rich cultural and traditional values.

Despite the severe challenges faced by Ukraine’s eastern regions, particularly Donetsk, due to aggression from the occupying forces and economic instability, this project offers a pathway to overcome these difficulties through the support and development of Donetsk’s ceramic industry.