The Kyiv Institute of Journalism was damaged by debris from a “Shahed” drone

An attack by Russian armed forces’ strike drones in Kyiv damaged the Institute of Journalism building at Taras Shevchenko National University. 

Olena Hrozna, a lecturer at the Institute of Journalism, told Chytomo that debris damaged the building’s front, near the Institute of International Relations dormitory. “All the windows on the end wall were blown out,” Hrozna said. “There isn’t a single floor with intact windows.”

Students, mainly from the nearby dormitory, helped manage the aftermath. Lecturer Olena Hrozna said the Institute of Journalism and Institute of International Relations are working together on recovery efforts. “Fortunately, everyone is safe, with no injuries to students or staff.”

Institute Director Yuriy Bondar told Chytomo that, as a temporary measure, windows will be covered with plastic. Assessments are underway for new window installations to resume hybrid learning quickly. “We hope partners will install new windows within a few days,” Bondar said.

Despite current conditions, the institute and departments will continue operating. From November 4-9, 2024, students will study remotely, with a return to regular classes pending building repairs. “We can’t stay or study in cold, uncomfortable conditions,” Bondar noted.

Bondar added that damage assessments are ongoing, so repair costs are unknown, but likely substantial due to extensive facade window damage. The Institute of International Relations dormitory at Taras Shevchenko National University also suffered debris damage.

The Institute of Journalism at Kyiv Taras Shevchenko National University is one of the leading educational and research institutions in Ukraine dedicated to training professionals in journalism, communications, and publishing. Notable alumni include Nataliya Gumeniuk (CEO of The Public Interest Journalism Lab and Lead Journalist at the Reckoning Project), Sonia Koshkina (Chief Editor, Livy Bereh), Andriy Shevchenko (former Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada), and Andriy Kokotiukha (acclaimed Ukrainian writer), among many others. The Institute of Journalism shares a building with the Institute of International Relations. Both institutes belong to Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, which ranks among Ukraine’s top three universities.