A few weeks ago, the University of Tartu once again appealed to the Estonian diaspora to support Ukrainian refugee students attending the University, who continue their studies under difficult circumstances.
There are 300 Ukrainian refugee students studying at the University of Tartu. The university made a commitment to these students at the outset of the 2022 Russian invasion, and established a fund in their support. To date the fund has been able to provide much needed financial support of 150,000 euros to Ukrainian students in need. A large measure of the money donated came from the Estonian diaspora.
In the words of one Ukrainian student:
„The scholarship was my salvation basically. Why? Because there is chaos in my country, Ukraine. The economy is unstable because of the Russian fullscale invasion of Ukraine. Briefly, my mother has a salary that is not enough to cover the needs of both of us. This scholarship has helped me to pay rent for a room in the dormitory for a long time and to afford necessary things such as food, care products, and more.“
The Ukrainian students fund was nearing depletion. However, I am gratified to report that in recent weeks Estonian organizations and individuals in both Canada and the United States have donated almost $45,000 CDN in support of Ukrainian refugee students. The University of Tartu is extremely grateful for this support.
In addition to donations by individuals, the following organizations have provided their generous support:
• Estonian Relief Committee USA
• Estonian American Fund
• Rotalia Foundation
• Korp! Rotalia, New York Chapter
• Tartu University Fund
• Tartu College
• Estonian Foundation in Canada
• Northern Birch Credit Union
• Korp! Fraternitas Estica
• Eesti Naisüliõpilaste Selts
• Korp! Filiae Patriae
The University of Tartu is sensitive to the limitations of resources available from the Estonian communities in the diaspora. However this is a worthwhile cause. This generation of students will rebuild Ukraine. These students are the country’s future doctors, teachers and workers. Providing the opportunity for young Ukrainians to continue their education at the University of Tartu is also a cost-effective way of contributing to the postwar reconstruction of Ukraine.
Every donation no matter how large or small, is needed and will be accepted with both the thanks and gratitude of the University. Please make your contribution in support of Ukrainian refugee students studying at the University of Tartu.
Donations in Canada can be made through the University of Tartu Fund by e-transfer to tartuulikoolifond@gmail.com or cheque to University of Tartu Fund, c/o 42 Humbercrest Blvd., Toronto, ON, M6S 4K8.
Donations in the USA can be made through the Estonian American Fund with cheques payable to Estonian American Fund, P.O. Box 2464, Rockville, MD 20852-9998.
Thank you all so very much for your support! It is so very necessary and so very much appreciated!
Peeter Einola
Canadian Representative
University of Tartu Foundation
