A Bridge Between Systems: How Slovakia and Ukraine Are Connecting Through Nursing
On October 15, 2025, we took part in the Open Day at the Trnava Secondary Medical School.
But this wasn’t just another school event — it was a meaningful step towards international collaboration in medical education.
During the event, a memorandum of cooperation was signed between the Khust Secondary Medical School (Ukraine) and the Trnava Nursing School (Slovakia).
At first glance, just a document — but in reality, a powerful symbol and a practical step toward aligning the educational systems of both countries.
Why does this matter?
Less than 0.1% of nurses in Slovakia come from third countries. Since 2022, not a single Ukrainian nurse has been registered in the national nursing chamber.
The issue is two-sided: Slovakia lacks effective integration mechanisms, while Ukrainian curricula still reflect a Soviet legacy.
This is exactly what the memorandum aims to change.
Key goals of the memorandum:
Align Ukrainian curricula with European standards
Encourage exchange of experience between institutions
Create real pathways for foreign nurses to practice in Slovak healthcare — not in warehouses or unqualified jobs
Who is behind this initiative?
The project is led by the International Association of Doctors and Healthcare Workers in Slovakia, with support from:
The Ministry of Health of the Slovak Republic
Trnava and Zakarpattia regional authorities
and two forward-thinking nursing schools committed to cooperation
What’s next?
We believe this is just the beginning. Ukraine is a candidate for EU membership, and modernizing its education system is an essential step.
But more importantly, this is about real people — nurses who want to grow, help others, and work in their profession.
And thanks to this initiative, they now have a real chance.
We thank everyone who supported and continues to support this project.