On Sunday, June 1, the first event at the new Kyiv School of Economics campus took place — the KSE-Obolon Open Picnic, supported by ICU. The event welcomed over 2,200 guests, including students, faculty, partners, and friends of KSE, government officials, business leaders, members of the local community, as well as 200 children, 95 dogs, and one cat.

The picnic marked the symbolic beginning of a new chapter in Ukrainian education and served as a powerful message that Ukraine continues to build its future despite adversity.

“I believe our future is not determined by fate but by our actions. Let’s act together and shape our future. Despite all enemies and all obstacles, we can do it,” said KSE President Tymofiy Mylovanov during the official opening.

Julie S. Davis, Chargé d’Affaires of the United States to Ukraine, highlighted the role of KSE: “This institution plays an incredible role. You have done so much to support Ukraine’s efforts to win the war and to understand how Ukraine can win the peace. The important work you have done in support of the Reconstruction Investment Fund is a vital part of our partnership — a partnership that brings us together and strengthens Ukraine’s future security.”

The event also featured a joint flag-raising ceremony for Ukraine, the United States, and KSE, symbolizing shared partnership and a common path forward.

Sergii Marchenko, Minister of Finance of Ukraine, underlined the importance of educational investment: “Quality education is what Ukraine needs right now. It is important not to be afraid of making bold moves, not to be afraid to live, and to dream. Without investment in education, we will have no future. The opening of this campus is about a dream. KSE has given a dream to Ukraine’s future.”

Minister for Veterans Affairs Natalia Kalmykova also took part in the event and emphasized: “I hope this new campus, and the specialists trained here, will contribute to Ukraine’s recovery. It’s especially important to integrate veterans who return to civilian life and continue to serve the country. I’m confident KSE will make a powerful contribution. Grow, develop, be inspired, create the incredible — because Ukraine deserves it.”

Kyrylo Fesyk, Head of the Obolon District State Administration in Kyiv, welcomed the KSE campus to the neighborhood: “I’m happy that Kyiv School of Economics is joining our Obolon ecosystem. We will do everything to make sure students here are safe, comfortable, and proud to study at your university and in our district. Thank you for being with us.”

KSE Rector Tymofii Brik emphasized that the new campus was built to empower those who are ready to act, think ambitiously, and face complexity head-on. With the largest private investment in education since Ukraine’s independence — $40 million — KSE will double its STEM offerings and increase its student body to over 2,500. Professors from Berkeley, Oxford, and the Sorbonne will teach at KSE, and a joint school with Olin College of Engineering will launch under a $3 million contract.

Even amid war, KSE embodies a working model of “brain gain,” attracting global talent to Ukraine rather than losing it. Svitlana Denysenko, Director of KSE Foundation, noted that the campus was never just about space — it is a response to the question: “What does the country need, and how can I be part of the solution?”

During the event, KSE announced a new grant program for winners of the 2024 All-Ukrainian Olympiads in STEM subjects — including computer science, mathematics, physics, IT, astronomy, and chemistry.

The program offers each winner a $500 monthly stipend and free housing in KSE’s new coliving facilities in Kyiv. Their schools can also receive grants from $3,000 to $10,000 for teacher training, modern equipment, materials, and other educational initiatives.

The picnic featured various activities — from lectures and science shows to a kids’ zone with a magician and hands-on experiments. KSE thanks Karta Svitu for their performance, made possible by a grant from the Talents for Ukraine program. Guests also had a chance to watch the documentary Stories of Veterans in the outdoor cinema, courtesy of the Ukraїner team.

Kyiv School of Economics sincerely thanks ICU Financial Group for supporting the event, NGO “Lada” for creating a comfortable space for mothers with children, and extends gratitude to all partners, community members, and guests who joined us in celebrating — and who continue building Ukraine’s future together.