Sumy National Agrarian University signed an agreement on cooperation and organisation of relations with the Mykhailivska Tsilyna Nature Reserve. 

The agreement envisages joint activities in research, teaching, organisational, information and other areas, as well as the introduction of the latest technologies through joint events. 

The parties to the agreement, Volodymyr LADYKA, acting rector of Sumy National University, and Hryhorii DUDCHENKO, acting director of the Mykhailivska Tsilyna Nature Reserve, aim to develop methods for researching biodiversity and conservation measures.

Acting Rector of the SNAU, Academician of the National Academy of Agrarian Sciences of Ukraine Volodymyr LADYKA noted that the educational institution now has the opportunity to get closer to a unique institution that, in its charter, focuses on the preservation of the natural environment. This is an extraordinary opportunity for research and development of both institutions.

Volodymyr LADYKA also stressed that the university has developed and approved a project for the reconstruction of the vivarium. It involves the creation of a model farm for small and medium-sized businesses. The production of environmentally friendly organic products, namely cheeses, will play an important role in this project. For this purpose, milk is used from Swiss cows that need to eat special herbs, which are available in the reserve. Moreover, the management plans to plant these types of plants on the territory of Sumy National Agrarian University.

The cooperation between the institutions was documented on 12 June 2024, but it began several years ago. Students of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology and Nature Management of Sumy NAU have repeatedly done their internships or just visited the reserve on a guided tour. In addition, 3 postgraduate students are currently conducting their research on the basis of this territory.

Hryhorii DUDCHENKO, acting director of the Mikhailovskaya Tsilyna Nature Reserve, is also pleased with the start of cooperation. The unique capabilities of the territory will provide unlimited scientific opportunities for joint work. Olha BAKUMENKO, Dean of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology and Environmental Management, adds that at least 3 publications in Scopus are already planned.