On 21–23 October, the third module of the certificate programme Community Building and Effective Engagement took place at the Volyn Orthodox Theological Academy in Lutsk. The module focused on conflict analysis and communication practices that help participants better understand other people's perspectives, interests and underlying needs. The programme included a wide range of practical exercises, completed individually, in pairs and in small groups.
The first day focused on conflict mapping, a tool that helps visualise conflicts, identify the people involved, understand their positions and explore the relationships between them. In their feedback, participants noted that conflict mapping was challenging but valuable for developing a practical understanding of conflicts. The guidance and support of facilitators Tetiana Kalenychenko, Dmytro Fedorchak and Olena Kopina helped them work through these challenges.
The second day was the most intensive. The group explored signs of conflict escalation and analysed different scenarios of how conflicts might develop. Participants had the opportunity to share their own cases and gain fresh perspectives, as well as examine situations brought by their colleagues. The day concluded with a talk show called Dialogue, facilitated by Tetiana Kalenychenko and Daria Bielinska. Participants took part in an improvised debate on a sensitive topic, taking turns arguing both for and against a particular position. The listener's task was to identify the underlying need behind what the speaker was saying. This exercise helped participants strengthen their assertive and empathetic communication skills.
On the third day, the group worked together on context-sensitive analysis, identifying factors that divide and connect communities, learning to assess their influence and exploring ways to address them.
“I'm amazed by how much hands-on practice we had during this module! My head is spinning, but I already can't wait to try these exercises in our community. A huge thank you to the team for all the new insights, the safe space and the support. You are truly inspiring!” shared one of the participants at the end of the module.
We are grateful to the Robert Bosch Stiftung for supporting our initiatives and contributing to the development of dialogue and effective engagement in communities. We also thank the Volyn Orthodox Theological Academy and Father Volodymyr Vakin for their hospitality, fruitful cooperation and for providing a welcoming space for learning!
The Community Building and Effective Engagement programme is jointly certified and can be recognised as part of other academic programmes or as continuing professional development. It has been approved by the Academic Councils of the Volyn Orthodox Theological Academy (Lutsk) and the Ukrainian Institute of Arts and Sciences (Bucha).
