The speaker for the session was Ms. Lyudmyla Boyko, Project and Program Coordinator at NGO "Eidos" and a postgraduate student at SUTE. She shared her professional experience in developing, submitting, and implementing civic initiatives, explaining how a successful project is born from an idea and outlining the necessary steps—from concept to reporting to the donor. Ms. Lyudmyla detailed where the preparation of a grant application begins, how to properly formulate goals and expected results, why it is important to be able to "tell the story" of one's project in language clear to donors, and how to avoid common mistakes that most often hinder funding. She also shared advice on finding relevant calls for proposals, writing a budget, engaging partners, and assessing the sustainability of results. The meeting was held in an open dialogue format, with students actively asking questions about the specifics of grants from international foundations, the European Union's requirements for projects, and opportunities for youth participation in local initiatives. Ms. Lyudmyla provided practical examples of "Eidos's" successful cases—projects that promoted a culture of transparency, accountability of government bodies, and civic education in Ukraine. As the speaker emphasized, a grant is not just funding but an instrument for change, allowing socially significant ideas to be realized, provided they are supported by quality planning and the sincere motivation of the team.

The event took place within the educational component "Practical Course in International Law," which integrates a separate module dedicated to the applied aspects of grant activities. This approach aligns with the state standard for Master's preparation, which anticipates the ability to develop and implement scientific and research projects. The department's faculty members stressed that the goal of such sessions is to give students not only theoretical knowledge but also practical tools that they can apply in their future work—whether in international organizations, think tanks, or their own initiatives. The session served as an excellent example of how academic preparation, practical experience, and civic engagement are combined within the university walls, training young lawyers not only to understand the law but also to use it for real social change.

Tamara Kortukova,
Associate Professor, Department of International, Civil, and Commercial Law

Yelyzaveta Holovko,
Master's Student in International Law