Burnout dynamic among Ukrainian academic staff during the war

This study examined burnout dynamics among Ukrainian academic staff during the full-scale war. A cross-sectional study was conducted twice: the first wave in July 2022 and the second in January 2023. To assess the burnout syndrome as the final outcome, the self-reported Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services adapted for socioeconomic professions by Vodopyanova was used and correlated with different characteristics. The results showed a significant positive trend in emotional exhaustion among Ukrainian academic staff, with females being more sensitive to war-related factors. The results demonstrate that prolonged stressful situations associated with the ongoing war and constant changes in professional conditions lead to significant depersonalization dynamics among academic staff of both sexes. For male academic staff, factors such as age and academic position become less significant for depersonalization. However, university relocation and migration processes were significant factors affecting female academic staff's' perception of effectiveness and accomplishment in their professional activities. The alarming dynamic of burnout levels detected among Ukrainian academic staff urges the national and institutional levels to take prompt actions to enhance the academic staff's mental health in the workplace for preserving not only the quality of higher education, but also human capital in war times for postwar recovery in Ukraine.

Ukrainian universities at the time of war: From occupation to temporary relocation

INTRODUCTION

This paper presents a deep analysis of the impact of the Russian occupation on the activities of Berdyansk State Pedagogical University in Ukraine. This reflection sheds light on numerous challenges faced by the university community under occupation due to the the Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, particularly emphasizing human rights violations and academic freedom.

METHODS

Utilizing a mixed-method approach, this study employs document analysis, online surveys, and semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS

The findings reveal a profound impact of war and occupation on academic and physical freedom. We share the experiences of staff and students during life under occupation, which are filled with fear of violent actions by the occupiers. Berdyansk State Pedagogical University had to adapt to changing conditions, transitioning to a digital educational platform and decentralizing its structure while concurrently fulfilling its third mission: social service and support of the university community and Berdyansk local community.

DISCUSSION

Our research-reflective piece calls for intervention and further research toward developing effective strategies to protect the rights of staff and students of higher educational institutions in conditions of war and occupation. Conclusions provide a critical view of the catastrophic consequences for academic communities and science if timely measures are not taken.