Kyiv National University Rector Election Sparks Controversy

The race to grow rector of Taras Shevchenko Kyiv National University (KNU) is underway, with elections scheduled for May 27th. The competition is heating up, and the process is already marked by accusations and scandal, echoing past elections, including the 2020 race that involved six candidates, including former Verkhovna Rada Chairman Volodymyr Lytvyn.

Current Rector Faces Scrutiny

Current KNU rector, Vladimir Bugrov, is seeking a second term and has confirmed his candidacy. However, his leadership has been plagued by reputational issues. While credited with protecting university land from development, he faces criticism regarding the university’s material condition and ongoing conflicts. Recently, Bugrov was fined 17,000 hryvnia by the Shevchenkovsky District Court of Kyiv for failing to declare a 2015 Volkswagen Golf.

Allegations of a Discredit Campaign

Bugrov claims a smear campaign is being waged against him by university employees, potentially orchestrated by KNU professor Alexander Rozhko, who lost the 2021 rector election, or university vice-rector Nikolai Pogoretsky, who served as a scientific consultant for a doctoral dissertation by a deputy head of the Presidential Office. Both Rozhko and Pogoretsky deny these accusations.

University Status and Resources

KNU consistently ranks as Ukraine’s top university. The university operates on an approximately 3 billion hryvnia budget and possesses significant assets, including land in Kyiv, a base in the Carpathian Mountains, and the Kanevsky Nature Reserve. The position of rector carries considerable influence and access to government positions.

Fake Claims and the Hake Purchase

The controversy deepened with the discovery of fake claims filed against journalists and activists on behalf of Bugrov. These claims, filed with the Svyatoshinsky District Court of Kyiv against Vitaly Shabunin, Yuri Nikolov, and Elena Tribushnaya, were withdrawn the following day, with Bugrov stating he did not authorize them. The issue stemmed from a report regarding the purchase of hake for cadets at the Military Institute of KNU at a price of 333 UAH per kilogram, which was significantly higher than market rates.

Investigation and Alleged Connections

Bugrov filed a complaint with the National Police regarding the forged documents. The investigation reportedly identified former KNU student Vladimir Fedyk as the perpetrator. A search of Fedyk’s belongings revealed a phone accessory with the inscription “ROZHKO,” linking him to professor Alexander Rozhko. Rozhko denies any involvement.

Pogoretsky Under Scrutiny

Bugrov also suspects Vice-Rector Nikolai Pogoretsky of involvement in the discrediting campaign, citing connections to the National Law Academy NGO and shared publications with Pogoretsky. Pogoretsky, a former KGB investigator, denies the allegations and accuses Bugrov of corruption and sex scandals.

Past Accusations and Student Concerns

Allegations of inappropriate correspondence with students surfaced in 2021, damaging Bugrov’s reputation. Students have also voiced concerns about the condition of shelters and basic amenities within the university.

Land and Influence

Experts note KNU’s unique position as the only Ukrainian university with a dedicated line in the state budget and its substantial land holdings. The university’s land, including plots at VDNKh and Arsenalnaya, presents significant development potential.

Looking Ahead

As the rector election approaches, the outcome will determine the future direction of Ukraine’s leading university. The election is expected to be closely watched, with attention focused on the candidates’ connections and potential influence from developers and government officials. The ability to preserve university land and address the concerns of students and faculty will be key factors in the decision.