Empowering Ukrainian Education: UiO's IT Donation Drive for War-Impacted Schools

In a remarkable display of solidarity and support, the University of Oslo (UiO) has embarked on a mission to fortify education in war-torn Ukraine. Spearheaded by the Faculty of Medicine, this initiative is providing much-needed IT equipment to Ukrainian primary schools, grappling with the devastating effects of daily air strikes and bombings. With numerous educational institutions reduced to rubble, the shift to remote learning has become imperative, highlighting a dire need for laptops and other IT resources.

This initiative traces back to the compassionate efforts of Elisabeth Kolflaath Semprini, an advisor, and Tor Henry Wold, IT manager at the Faculty of Medicine. Their dedication to the cause, rooted in Semprini's extensive involvement in aid work for Ukraine since the 2022 Russian invasion, has set a precedent for the entire university. Following a direct request from the Ukrainian embassy in Norway, the duo mobilized support across UiO, receiving an enthusiastic nod from the faculty dean and Rector Svein Stølen.

The campaign operates in close coordination with the Ukrainian Embassy in Norway, the Ukrainian Association in Norway, and PUTE, a voluntary organization, channeling donations to the Ukrainian Ministry of Education and other educational entities. This collaborative effort underscores a powerful message: while no single individual can tackle all challenges, collective action can make a significant impact.