On 24 May, UNHCR conducted a special meeting with students of UITM.

The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as students gathered, eager to discuss and learn. The diversity of the group was immediately apparent, with students from various programmes – mostly Social Work – and backgrounds, each bringing their unique viewpoints to the table.

The primary agenda of the meeting was to discuss the role of UNITED NATIONS in today’s world and during the Ukrainian war crisis. The session was structured to include a brief presentation by UNHRC representatives, including a quiz for students and a Q&A session. The presentation was delivered by Yolanda Ines Zapata Henry, Head of the UNHCR Field Office in Rzeszów.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is a United Nations agency mandated to aid and protect refugees, forcibly displaced communities, and stateless people, and to assist in their voluntary repatriation, local integration, or resettlement to a third country. Since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, there has been a UNHCR Field Office in Rzeszów, taking an active part in providing support for Ukrainian refugees.

The meeting underscored the importance of continuous learning. Students were encouraged to stay curious, keep exploring new ideas, and never stop learning. This mindset is crucial for staying relevant and making meaningful contributions in the social work field.

This is the first in the series of meetings organized for UITM students, especially those studying Social Work. The next one is planned for June – we will keep you informed!