Date: April 24, 2025

Location: Online (via Zoom)

Hosted From: Kyiv, Ukraine

The XVI International Scientific and Practical Conference, titled "National Strategies for Economic Development in a Global Environment," was successfully held online on April 24th, 2025. The event brought together a diverse group of Ukrainian and international scholars, PhD students, and expert practitioners to analyse and discuss the formulation and implementation of national economic development strategies amidst global challenges.

Esteemed Co-Organizers

We are proud to highlight that New Western University (California) served as a key co-organizer of this significant international event. This collaboration underscores NWU's commitment to fostering global dialogue and academic excellence in international economic relations and business.

Other co-organizers included:

• Department of International Economic Relations, Business and Tourism, National University "Kyiv Aviation Institute"

• The Hennadii Udovenko Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

• International NGO "Carpathian Platform"

  
  

Distinguished Moderation and Leadership

The conference benefited greatly from the expert moderation of Dr. Kateryna SYDORENKO, Dean of the College of Business at New Western University. Dr. Sydorenko, who is also a Professor at the Department of International Economic Relations, Business and Tourism at the State University "Kyiv Aviation Institute," played a vital role in guiding the discussions. She co-moderated alongside Dr. Alina Prokopieva from the State University "Kyiv Aviation Institute".

Keynote Speakers and Insights

The conference featured numerous high-profile speakers who shared their expertise on critical global and national economic issues. Notable speakers included:

• Hennadii Nadolenko: Director of the Hennadii Udovenko Diplomatic Academy of Ukraine, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary.

• Volodymyr Khomanets: Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ukraine to the Tunisian Republic and the State of Libya, discussing diplomacy in the context of African economic drivers.

• Kira Spyrydonova: Director of the Department of Economic Policy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, addressing Ukraine's economic diplomacy during the war.

• Ivan Štefanec: Member of the European Parliament, speaking on competitiveness in the context of global changes.

• Jan Tombinsky: Former Head of the European Union Delegation to Ukraine and Ambassador, offering a European perspective on economic development strategy during wartime.

New Western University's Contribution: Rethinking Competitiveness

Additionally, Mr. Yurii KUSHNAROV, Director of Public Affairs at New Western University, delivered a compelling presentation on "Rethinking Competitiveness in an Era of Global Uncertainty: The Strategic Role of Universities." His thought-provoking insights addressed how higher education institutions must adapt to prepare students for a rapidly changing global landscape

Mr. KUSHNAROV's presentation focused on several key aspects of modern educational competitiveness in an era of global uncertainty:

· Adaptive Education Approach: He introduced New Western University's innovative model of "adaptive education," designed to prepare students for a constantly changing world where traditional competitive advantages may no longer suffice. This approach emphasizes developing students' ability to adapt and generate new ideas in response to global challenges

· Industry-Designed Programs: A central competitive advantage of New Western University lies in its practical, industry-designed programs that equip students with immediately applicable professional skills. The MBA program with specializations in Risk Management and AI was highlighted as particularly relevant in today's economic landscape

· Global Research Collaboration: New Western University supports scientific research through its International Collaboration and Development Research Center (ICDRC), which promotes teamwork between countries and brings together academic and professional experts to address significant global challenges

· Accessible Online Learning: The university's fully online MBA program was presented as a model for connecting students globally while providing flexibility for working professionals. This approach helps students develop comfort with technology and remote collaboration - critical skills in the contemporary business environment

· Affordability and Practical Focus: Mr. Kushnarov emphasized that modern universities must prioritize affordability, industry-relevant programs, and valuable networking opportunities to remain competitive in today's educational landscape

Global Participation and Chinese Research Students

The conference demonstrated true international collaboration, with participation from numerous countries including Ukraine, Slovakia, Romania, Poland, the UAE, and the United States. Of particular note was the active participation of Chinese research students currently studying at Ukrainian universities, who contributed valuable perspectives on international economic relations and development strategies during the war

Their engagement reflects the growing international interest in Ukraine's economic resilience and future development, as well as the deep educational ties between Ukraine and China.

Conclusion

The successful collaboration between New Western University and prestigious Ukrainian educational and diplomatic institutions demonstrates our commitment to fostering international academic partnerships and contributing to important dialogues on global economic development. This conference provided a valuable platform for exchanging insights on Ukraine's economic strategies and international partnerships during challenging times.

By bringing together diverse voices from academia, diplomacy, and business, the conference exemplified New Western University's dedication to adaptive education that addresses real-world challenges through international collaboration. We look forward to continuing these important conversations and partnerships as we work together to navigate global uncertainty and build more resilient economic systems.