Convocation at the Kyiv-Mohyla Business School, which always takes place on June 28, is one of the most festive days of the year. It is eagerly awaited by the school team, faculty, and, of course, the participants.

Studying in MBA programs is not easy; however, this year's graduates had to go through this journey under special circumstances, noted kmbs dean Oleksandr Savruk in his welcoming speech. "You had to study in difficult conditions: the pandemic was a challenge for humanity, and in our country, the war has been ongoing for the 8th year. Uncertainty and unpredictability are the main characteristics of our time. However, overcoming all obstacles, you have achieved your goal. And you have moved to another level. Now you are ready to take responsibility not only for yourself, your business, but also for the country."

So, for 53 managers, two years of diligent study, hard work, exciting lectures, off-site modules, and unexpected insights are behind them. And during these two years, the MBA program leaders were always with the participants - sharing wisdom, supporting, inspiring. Each of them gave their parting words on this solemn day. Eduard Maltsev (kmbs deputy dean, PMBA leader) noted that MBA education primarily provides the opportunity to be free; Olena Zhiltsova (EMBA leader) wished for great ideas, intelligence, and soul for them, and people nearby who will believe and appreciate unconditionally; Yevhen Pentsak (MBAF leader) compared life to a painting, a piece of which has already been painted, but the most interesting is yet to come.

Traditionally, the kmbs dean's award "Breakthrough" was presented. This year's recipients were Iryna Horova (PMBA-20), Vitaliy Syomka (PMBA-21), Lesya Omelyanenko (EMBA-33), Oleksiy Volkov (EMBA-34), and Olga Frantsuzova (MBAF-11).

With a congratulatory speech and an invitation to join the kmbs Alumni community, EMBA-27 graduate Kateryna Martynenko spoke, but advised not to delay, as the student anthem "Gaudeamus" sings, "vita nostra brevis est".

After the official part, a surprise awaited the graduates - the last homework assignment: they had to learn and sing a song together right at the event. The task was performed brilliantly - the performance was incredibly energetic.

We congratulate the graduates on the beginning of a new stage in their lives, wishing them new heights and boundless horizons!

Convocation — 2021