On February 20, Ukraine bows its head before the Heroes of the Heavenly Hundred. On this day, we not only remember those who gave their lives for freedom but also reflect on the price of independence.
At Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, we traditionally honor the memory of the Heroes at the memorial Obelisk dedicated to students and faculty who died for Ukraine. Here, in the heart of the university, the name of Roman Huryk — a 19-year-old student who went to Maidan and became a symbol of the fight for dignity and truth — is always heard.
Today, as the struggle continues, the memory of Roman and all those who gave their lives for our freedom is not only a sorrow but also a guiding light. Our university has already lost 59 students and alumni in the war against the Russian aggressor. These are not just numbers. These are the fates of young people who believed in Ukraine’s future and gave the most precious thing they had for it.
“We must be worthy of their sacrifice. Ukraine lives as long as we are united. We must not only remember but also act: learn, work, support the military, and help those in need. Only then will we be able to achieve victory,” emphasized Ihor Tsependa.
Roman’s mother, Iryna Huryk, shared the pain that will never go away, while also expressing faith in the fact that thousands of young Ukrainians continue her son’s mission: “Memory is the most important thing we must carry in our hearts. As long as we remember, as long as we talk about them, they are alive. But the most important thing is not just to remember, but to carry their ideas into life, to build a strong Ukraine.”
The meeting concluded with the song “Unconquered Ukraine” performed by student Sofiya Derev’yanko.
These are not just words, but our common vow — to never give up, to fight, and to win.
We remember. We unite. We act.
