UzhNU Students Attend Cyprus Summer School for the Fifth Time as Part of the Twinning Partnership
“This summer, I took part in a two-week English language summer school at a branch campus affiliated with the University of Lancashire. The classes were extremely engaging. I’m especially grateful to our teacher, Turan, for his clear explanations of grammar and his interactive lessons. During the second week, we staged a mock trial, invented ‘fake news’ stories, and even created entirely new, fictional companies (along with their products). It was another major and meaningful step forward in improving my language skills.
The extracurricular programme was just as packed: after classes and on weekends, we visited other cities, including Larnaca, Paphos, and Ayia Napa. Beyond improving my English, the trip – as a philology student – also made me fall in love with the Greek language. Last but not least, I want to mention the other participants in this trip, with whom we became close friends remarkably quickly, and to give special thanks to our group leader for all the help and support during this journey.
I sincerely encourage every student to take part in international programmes like this one – it’s an invaluable investment in your personal growth and an unforgettable experience!” – says Maksym Yarmola, a 3rd-year student, Faculty of Foreign Philology.
From July 28 to August 9, 2026, students of Uzhhorod National University travelled for the fifth time to the Cyprus branch of the University of Lancashire – and this time the programme was memorable not only for its intensive English course, but also for something unprecedented in the history of the Summer School: for the first time, male students joined the group. For five years running, the trip had been a purely female tradition – this year, that finally changed.
One of the students who took part in the Summer School this year shared his impressions of the trip:
“The study trip to Cyprus was a truly special experience for me. Over those two weeks, we not only improved our English but also had the chance to get to know the country’s culture and atmosphere, travel a lot, and simply have a great time together. What I enjoyed most was the format of the classes – instead of conventional lessons, there were many live conversations, discussions, teamwork, and interactive tasks, so we ended up using English almost constantly. I’d especially like to thank our group curator, Alina-Maria, who was with us throughout the entire trip, helped us in every situation, and did everything she could to make our stay as comfortable as possible. Perhaps the greatest value of this trip for me was the people – in such a short time, we became very close and created so many memories together. I’m sincerely grateful to Uzhhorod National University and the Faculty of Medicine for the opportunity to represent my university abroad, to improve my English, and to gain an experience that will stay with me for a long time to come,” states Indus Kyrylo, a 1st-year student, Faculty of Medicine.
As in previous years, the core of the programme was intensive English language classes. Every day, students were immersed in the language environment: grammar, reading, listening comprehension, discussions, and group projects – all conducted in English with the Cyprus instructor. The classes combined traditional formats with interactive ones: students worked in pairs and small groups, prepared and presented their own projects, and took part in debates – all of which helped them not only reinforce grammar and vocabulary, but also start thinking freely in English.
One activity that especially stood out for the students was a simulated court trial (moot court), held at Cyprus’s only moot court facility – a specially equipped courtroom where future lawyers and diplomats practise legal debate in conditions as close to reality as possible. Participants were divided into prosecution and defence teams, prepared arguments in legal English, and presented their case before “judges” – effectively experiencing the entire process from case preparation to the delivery of a verdict. The activity turned out to be more than just language practice – it was a genuine challenge for those interested in law and public speaking, giving students a real taste of what it means to argue a case in a foreign language under realistic conditions.
Between classes, Cyprus revealed a different side of itself – its coastline, the narrow streets of old towns, and sunshine that was simply inescapable. Excursions were organised almost every day, so by the end of the programme, students had seen much more of the island, but not from a classroom window, adding a rich cross-cultural experience to the academic side of the trip.
“Cyprus Summer School 2026 was all about a unique experience, unforgettable impressions, and incredible emotions! What I remember most are the lessons themselves – our teacher explained the material in an engaging and accessible way and actively involved us through interactive activities, games, and projects. After classes, wonderful excursions to various cities across the island awaited us, showcasing the true beauty of Cyprus. This trip will always stay in my memory as a wonderful experience!” – comments Yulianna Shpin, a 3rd-year student, Faculty of Geography.
For some, this trip was their first experience of living independently abroad; for others, it was the push they needed to consider studying in the UK or in Cyprus; and for the male participants, it was proof that the doors of this programme are open to anyone ready for two weeks of intensive study and plenty of sunshine.
“A packed schedule, a wealth of new knowledge, and a warm sea – that’s how we spent two weeks at the affiliated branch of the University of Lancashire in Cyprus. Studying in that kind of environment turned out to be genuinely interesting, easy, and relaxed. The classes were captivating from the very first minute, and time flew by unnoticed. We express our deep thanks to the teacher, who devoted time and thought to every lesson, down to the smallest detail, and took into account all our weaknesses. Our trips around the island were another vivid highlight that beautifully complemented our studies. Not only did we improve our English, but we also experienced the atmosphere of a real holiday. I’m incredibly grateful to the teachers and organisers for the opportunity to be part of this unforgettable experience!” – admits Kristina Lukan, a 1st-year student, Faculty of Dentistry.
The Summer School participants extend their sincere gratitude to the Vice-Rector of UzhNU, Prof. Myroslava Lendel and to the Head of the International Relations Department, Assoc. Prof. Oksana Sviezhentseva, for their unwavering support throughout the programme.
Uzhhorod National University wishes to express its sincere gratitude to the University of Lancashire for many years of fruitful cooperation, excellent organisation, and the warm hospitality extended to UzhNU students. Special thanks also go to our colleagues at a Cyprus-based affiliate of the University of Lancashire: English language teacher Turan Değirmencioğlu, Language Academy coordinator Lyda Eleftheriou, as well as the entire staff of the institution and the student accommodation team, for the high standard of organisation, the warm welcome, and the care shown to our students throughout the entire programme.
