“Extraordinary Educators Seminar 2026”: A Space for Professional Growth, Trust, and Inspiration

From January 18 to 23, 2026, the “Extraordinary Educators Seminar” took place in the Carpathians. This five-day educational event for faculty members of medical higher education institutions was organized within the framework of the Ukrainian-Swiss Project “Medical Education Development.” Representing I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, a pilot participant of the project, were Associate Professors Nataliia Haliiash, Nataliia Petrenko, Antonina Chervatiuk (Head of the Simulation Training Center), and Viktor Shatskyi.

The “Extraordinary Educators Seminar” is a horizontal, peer-to-peer learning format based on oral tradition and live exchange of experience, without rigid instructions or ready-made solutions. It is a space where educators can freely share their practices, doubts, and discoveries, learning from one another (for more details, see https://ngtm.net/).

The seminar’s motto was “Not no, but how.” It reflects an approach focused on finding solutions, expanding pedagogical thinking, and stepping beyond familiar patterns.

The seminar format was built on the principles of live interaction and facilitation, without traditional lectures or formal presentations. Participants worked in groups, discussed professional challenges, reflected on their own experiences, and jointly searched for ways to improve teaching. The program included innovative psychological and pedagogical topics, such as polarity theory and the application of the Dilts Pyramid for analyzing complex dilemmas in professional practice. Equally inspiring were the friendly evening sessions, during which participants shared memories of people who influenced their professional and personal journeys, and read and discussed favorite books or resources as part of a reading club. The “Young Educator Panel” session was also successfully held, where early-career teachers received guidance and support from experienced colleagues.

At the end of the seminar, all participants took a final “exam” by presenting their own creative vision of an extraordinary educator. This unusual closing session was filled with music, songs, and creative performances—both serious and humorous—which created an atmosphere of sincere unity, support, and mutual respect.

Sincere gratitude goes to trainers Olha Bershadska and Nataliia Starynska for creating a space for growth, openness, trust, and professional dialogue. Warm thanks to all colleagues who took part in the seminar and shared their experience, support, and heartfelt warmth. Special appreciation is extended to the event organizers, in particular Olena Ihnashchuk, for the high level of organization and the inspiring atmosphere.

We encourage educators of our university to participate in activities organized within the Ukrainian-Swiss Project “Medical Education Development,” as involvement in such initiatives opens opportunities to broaden one’s worldview, enhance teaching skills, discover new ideas, find role models, and gain inspiration.