Strengthening Rehabilitation Education at Sumy State University in Ukraine

Considering the dynamic evolution of Ukraine’s healthcare system and the urgent national demand for a highly competent rehabilitation workforce, a collaborative initiative was launched to enhance physical therapy education at Sumy State University. Led by the Physiopedia team, with guidance from international mentor Dr. Larisa Hoffman and national coordinator Dr. Olha Kovalchuk, the project focuses on aligning the university’s Master’s program in Physical Therapy with international standards.

Using the Academic Program Reflection Tool (APRT) from the International Rehabilitation Education and Training Toolkit (IRETT), the Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Sports Medicine is undertaking a structured review and enhancement process. Key contributors include Dr. Yurii Ataman (Head of Department), Dr. Olga Yezhova, and Dr. Olga Sytnyk, who are leading efforts to embed evidence-based practice, ethics, leadership, and multidisciplinary collaboration into the curriculum.

This initiative is characterised by:

• A comprehensive review and strengthening of the Master’s program in Physical Therapy.
• The development of structured action plans to align academic content with international standards.
• Ongoing collaboration between international experts and national educators to ensure sustainability.

Through this reflective and participatory approach, the project aims to foster academic excellence and prepare graduates to deliver high-quality, evidence-informed rehabilitation services in Ukraine and beyond.

If you would like to learn more about this analysis or discuss similar projects using the PRRT, please contact us.