Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv has launched an internal investigation following the scandal surrounding Volodymyr Bugrov
The first meeting of a special commission set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the scandal involving former rector Volodymyr Bugrov took place at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv.
This was reported on the university’s official Facebook page. During the meeting, the commission members identified the main areas of focus and sent relevant requests to the university’s departments.
A dedicated email address has been set up at KNU to collect information regarding possible violations of the rights of students, lecturers and staff. Enquiries can be sent to [email protected].
The university administration stated that the full and timely provision of information is necessary for an objective clarification of all circumstances.
“The Commission emphasises that the full, timely and accurate provision of information is a necessary condition for an objective investigation of the circumstances. Failure to provide, concealment, alteration, destruction or falsification of documents, materials or information that may be relevant to the investigation will be subject to separate assessment in accordance with the law,” the university stated.
KNU also noted that it is interested in a comprehensive and impartial establishment of the facts, the protection of the rights of those involved in the educational process, and an appropriate response should any violations be confirmed.
In April, a student rally took place outside the main building of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, demanding the suspension of Volodymyr Bugrov and public explanations.
The protests were triggered by the publication of footage in which a man resembling the rector was filmed in a university lecture theatre, as well as allegations of intimate correspondence with female students. The Student Parliament reported that it had discovered adult toys in the premises that appeared in the video.
Vladimir Bugrov denied the allegations. He described the video as an anonymous hoax, the items found as a provocation, and the protests themselves as an information attack ahead of the election for the university’s head.
On 29 April, Bugrov stepped down as rector following the expiry of his five-year contract. At the same time, he announced his intention to stand for re-election as head of the university.
