Nursing Without Borders: A Ukrainian-Polish Project Shaping a New Generation of Medical Professionals
In October, students of the Medical Faculty of Uzhhorod National University took part in the international educational project “Nursing Without Borders”, implemented with the support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine and the Ukrainian-Polish Council for Youth Exchange. The project partner was the International Academy of Applied Sciences in Łomża (Poland).
The goal of the project was to promote cooperation, exchange of experience and integration of Ukrainian youth into the European educational space through intercultural dialogue and the improvement of nursing education according to international standards.
The project was led by Professor Mariia Derbak, Doctor of Medical Sciences and Head of the Department of Faculty Therapy at UzhNU.
Nursing as a Profession Without Borders
“For me, the project Nursing Without Borders was a truly valuable experience, even though it lasted only a week. The main result, in my opinion, is the opportunity to feel that nursing really has no borders, because we are united by shared values of humanity, care and the desire to help,” said Professor Mariia Derbak.
During the visit, participants toured the Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński Provincial Hospital in Łomża, the St. Spirit Hospice, simulation laboratories at the International Academy of Applied Sciences, and the Warsaw Regional Chamber of Nurses and Midwives. These activities combined practical, educational and spiritual aspects of professional development.
“Practical training is the environment where theory turns into a true understanding of the profession. Students see that behind every clinical case there is a living person with pain, fear and hope. This helps them develop empathy, responsibility and respect for human dignity,” emphasized the professor.
European Standards and the Development of Ukrainian Nursing
During the project, participants learned about the Polish model of nursing, where nurses are independent clinical professionals.
“Ukrainian nursing has great potential to develop in the same direction. To achieve this, we must change our perception of the nurse’s role by seeing them not only as an assistant to a doctor but as a competent partner in the treatment process. It is important to strengthen postgraduate education, promote research activities and ensure professional autonomy,” noted Mariia Derbak.
Partnership and New Opportunities
The project opened new perspectives for cooperation between Uzhhorod National University and the International Academy of Applied Sciences in Łomża.
“In the future, I see opportunities for joint educational programs, internships for students and teachers, as well as research activities in the fields of nursing practice, public health and medical education. Training sessions on simulation learning are particularly important for improving the practical skills of students,” the professor highlighted.
Simulation-Based Learning: A Path to Higher Quality Education
A key focus of the project was the implementation of simulation-based training, which allows students to practice clinical skills in conditions as close to real-life as possible.
“Simulation training should become a permanent component of the educational process at UzhNU. Its systematic introduction requires modernization of facilities, instructor training and participation in international grant programs. However, the result will be a new level of professional competence and patient safety that fully meets European standards,” said Mariia Derbak.
Nursing as a Calling Beyond Borders
“The expression Nursing Without Borders has a deeply symbolic meaning. It represents unity among professionals regardless of country, language or healthcare system. It is about overcoming professional and mental barriers and expanding the nurse’s role from care to education, research and leadership,” explained Professor Derbak.
She also noted that such projects help maintain professional motivation in times of war and systemic challenges in healthcare.
“These initiatives remind us that nursing is not just a profession but a calling to serve people in any circumstances. They strengthen a sense of belonging to the global community of professionals and foster a new ethic of humanity and compassion,” she added.
Students’ Impressions: Experience That Inspires
Yuliia Panichkovska, a student of the Faculty of Medicine, shared her impressions:
“The project was a valuable experience for my professional and personal growth. Visits to Polish hospitals showed the importance of the nurse’s role as an independent professional and demonstrated high standards of patient communication. This experience motivates me to apply European approaches in daily practice.”
Her fellow student Anna Kakurina added: “The most impressive part was visiting the simulation laboratories, where we practiced clinical skills on modern equipment close to real conditions. It gave us confidence in our actions and showed how important practical experience and teamwork are. This trip became a key step in understanding nursing as a true vocation.”
The project “Nursing Without Borders” became an important step for Uzhhorod National University in strengthening international cooperation, integrating European standards and shaping a new generation of professionals for whom care and compassion truly have no borders.
Anastasiya Lendel
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