On 15 November 2025, a high-level delegation of the Republic of Slovenia visited Ivan Boberskyi Lviv State University of Physical Culture. The purpose of the visit was to discuss the legacy of Ivan Boberskyi – the founder of the Ukrainian theory of physical education, an educator, and a prominent national public figure.
Boberskyi’s legacy attracts strong international academic interest, and his approaches to physical education, sport, and pedagogical systems serve as an important intellectual foundation for Ukrainian–Slovenian dialogue.
Following the discussion of the historical and cultural heritage of Ivan Boberskyj, the parties also reviewed:
- video materials presenting the University’s sports and academic infrastructure, including the Sports Building, the Educational and Rehabilitation Centre, and the SKIF Stadium;
- the University’s academic programmes, including the training of specialists in sport, physical therapy, tourism, and health;
- opportunities for international cooperation, academic mobility, and joint scientific initiatives;
Delegation of the Republic of Slovenia
- Dr. Aleš Musar — the husband of the President of the Republic of Slovenia.
- H.E. Mrs. Mateja Prevolšek — Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Slovenia to Ukraine.
- Mag. Tomaž Lovrenčič — Director at ITF Enhancing Human Security.
- Ms. Mateja Župan Brezovnik — Head of Protocol of the President’s spouse.
- Mr. Dino Šujak — staff member at ITF Enhancing Human Security.
Delegation of Ivan Boberskyi Lviv State University of Physical Culture
- Yaroslav Svyshch — Rector, Candidate of Sciences in Physical Education, Associate Professor.
- Andriy Sova — Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor of the Department of Humanities and Olympic Education, researcher of Ivan Boberskyi’s legacy.
- Marian Pityn — Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs and International Relations, Doctor of Physical Education and Sport, Professor.
- Pavlo Kucher — Acting Head of the International Relations Office, Candidate of Geographical Sciences, Associate Professor.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the life and legacy of Ivan Boberskyi. Dr. Aleš Musar emphasized that despite the geographical distance between the two countries, Ukraine and Slovenia are connected by a shared cultural and historical bridge formed, in particular, through the life and work of Ivan Boberskyj. The National Library of Slovenia in Ljubljana holds a significant collection of archival materials related to Boberskyi, offering valuable prospects for further academic research.
The delegation became acquainted with the history of the University, its sports traditions, and the achievements of its graduates – champions and medalists of the Olympic Games. The guests visited the Pantheon of Fame of the Heroes of the Russo-Ukrainian War.
As part of the tour, the delegation visited the modern esports classroom, where Rector Yaroslav Svyshch presented the specifics of student training and the University’s experience in hosting esports competitions.
A separate part of the visit was dedicated to the exhibition stand featuring the life of Ivan Boberskyi. The delegation viewed important milestones of his activity and read his well-known aphorisms, including:
«Not with tears, but with the sword!»
«Deeds, not words!»
«Struggle tempers the will!»
The parties also discussed the Ivan Boberskyi Honorary Distinction, which is awarded to distinguished University lecturers for their outstanding contribution to the development of physical education and sports science.
Dr. Kateryna Terek – Counselor, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Representative Office in Lviv, played an active role in this high-level meeting. Ivan Boberskyi Lviv State University of Physical Culture warmly expresses its sincere gratitude to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine for their presence, steadfast support, and invaluable contribution to the advancement of international cooperation.
The visit tooks place in a warm and constructive atmosphere and became an important step in strengthening Ukrainian–Slovenian academic and cultural cooperation. Both sides emphasized the importance of collaboration in the context of today’s challenges and expressed their commitment to deepening the partnership between Ukraine and the Republic of Slovenia through educational and scientific projects.
The University’s leadership expresses its sincere gratitude to the high-level delegation of the Republic of Slovenia for the visit, constructive dialogue, and readiness for further cooperation.
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