Strengthening Support for Ukrainian Partners through Mentorship and Language Learning Programmes
20 September 2025
Joining forces with Durham and Northumbria
In Spring 2025, Newcastle University joined forces with Durham and Northumbria universities to mark three years since the start of the war in Ukraine.
The event was part of the newly formed Universities for North East England collaboration.
It reaffirmed the region’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine’s higher education sector during times of crisis.
A partnership rooted in solidarity and collaboration
Following the success of this collaborative event, Newcastle University continues to deepen its commitment to the UK-Ukraine #TwinForHope initiative. It is also committed to its five-year partnership with the National University of Water and Environmental Engineering (NUWEE), through academic mentorship and language learning.
NUWEE’s Rector, Professor Viktor Moshynskyi, praised the collaboration, noting:
“Our joint efforts not only support immediate academic needs but also pave the way for long-term growth and stability in higher education.”
Academic Mentorship Scheme: supporting disrupted careers
Newcastle University joined the Ukraine Academic Mentorship Scheme in 2025, a UK-wide initiative led by Science for Ukraine UK volunteers. The scheme pairs UK academics with Ukrainian colleagues to provide:
- career guidance
- academic writing support
- professional networking
Newcastle mentors are matched with NUWEE mentees wherever possible, ensuring tailored, discipline-specific support.
Mentorships typically span three months, with biweekly meetings facilitated via the PushFar platform. This initiative not only aids Ukrainian academics but also fosters meaningful cross-cultural exchange and professional growth for mentors.
PALS: dedicated language learning
Newcastle University’s Peer Assisted Language Learning (PALS) programme has evolved to include a dedicated NUWEE stream. This ensures tailored support for Ukrainian students and academics. This bespoke stream is independently resourced, allowing Newcastle staff and student facilitators to focus exclusively on the needs of NUWEE participants.
The six-week courses, delivered in small groups and 1-to-1 formats, are designed to foster confidence, fluency, and intercultural exchange.
Since its launch in 2022, the NUWEE stream has supported over 230 students and 33 academics. This initiative reflects Newcastle University’s long-term commitment to accessible, student-led language learning. It also reflects its recognition of language as a vital tool for academic resilience and global engagement.
As Professor Chris Whitehead, Interim Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global at Newcastle University noted;
“At a time when global challenges continue to unsettle higher education and the world at large, our commitment to international collaboration remains steadfast. Our partnership with NUWEE is a powerful example of what can be achieved when institutions unite with shared purpose and commitment.”
Looking ahead
As the partnership with NUWEE evolves, the university remains committed to supporting Ukraine’s educational resilience and long-term recovery, through both the Twin for Hope initiative and as a University of Sanctuary.