Welcoming the new students, Olexandr Povazhnyi, rector of Metinvest Polytechnic, said: “Each of you is taking a step towards your professional future. For some, this is an opportunity to explore new horizons, acquire unique knowledge and experience. I particularly want to address those who have recently returned from the front lines. Your desire to continue your education after serving is an example of incredible strength and dedication. You defended Ukraine on the front lines, and now you are helping to build its future.”
Sixteen veterans employed at Kamet Steel, Zaporizhstal, Metinvest Sichstal, Zaporizhvognetryv and the Central, Inhulets and Southern Iron Ore mining and processing plants have taken the opportunity to gain new knowledge and experience for their professional development.
Ten participants from the “Heart of Azovstal” project, aimed at supporting the defenders of Mariupol, have also chosen to link their future to engineering and technical specialities. Among them are Vladyslav Zhaivoronok (callsign “Wikipedia”), a drone pilot from the Azov regiment who suffered a severe injury and lost a leg; Vitaliy Barabash (“Benya”), a navy sailor who recorded a video appeal to Israel on behalf of all Jews in the blockaded Azovstal while wounded; and Ilya Illyashenko (“Smurf”), a sergeant in the State Border Guard Service’s coastal forces. All of them survived Russian captivity and were later released.
Ilya Illyashenko said: “I chose to study at Metinvest Polytechnic because the university actively supports the defenders of Mariupol and the military in general. I’m very pleased that the lecturers understand who I am and provide all kinds of support. I chose a very interesting speciality for me: computer science. I believe this profession has a great future.”
Metinvest Polytechnic operates in a hybrid format, combining online learning with in-person practical classes, laboratory work and experiments at industrial sites. As Ukraine faces a vast reconstruction effort, specialists with both broad knowledge and practical skills are already in demand.
The university distinguishes itself from other institutions by adapting its educational process to meet modern business needs. All programmes are not only accredited and licenced by the state, but also reviewed by Metinvest practitioners and external industry experts. Lectures and practical sessions with specialists are a central component of the education. This model enables students to immediately apply their professional potential after receiving their diplomas.
The curriculum at Metinvest Polytechnic encompasses not only technical knowledge, but also the development of multiple competencies: from critical thinking and digital design skills to a deep understanding of production and business processes. The university provides extensive opportunities for students to participate in real industrial projects, collaborate with businesses and undertake internships at international companies.
The best students receive scholarships and can participate in grant programmes. Additionally, all those interested are encouraged to engage in research and student governance.
The academic year for new students began with the “University Education: Professional Profile” training. It included a lecture by the rector, meetings with Metinvest industry practitioners, and an introduction to the university’s educational process and academic policies.
In total, over 1,080 students have enrolled at Metinvest Polytechnic over the past three years. The first cohort of master’s graduates have already received their diplomas, enabling them to work at leading industrial enterprises.
Metinvest Polytechnic is a university of the future, offering young people new and broad opportunities, using modern digital systems and platforms in its teaching. The university was established by Metinvest Group, owned by Rinat Akhmetov, in June 2020, and the first intake of students was in 2022. The project’s primary goal is to provide European-level higher education in Ukraine. The university trains individuals in technical specialities that are in demand in the job market. The Group guarantees the best students their first job, career growth, financial support and other incentives.