Dr. Aleš Musar, spouse of the President of Slovenia, visits volunteers working on ITF project of psychosocial support in Izmail, Ukraine
The project 'Mental Health and Psychosocial Assistance to Children and Their Families,' implemented in partnership with local Ukrainian NGO Zhiva-Ya and Slovene Philanthropy, delivers essential psychosocial support to children and families affected by the war in Ukraine's Izmail region. By training local mental health professionals and empowering school workers, the initiative fosters a community-based approach to mental health care. Through collaboration with 24 educational institutions, the project strengthens the capacity of mental health professionals, schools, and civil society organizations, ensuring accessible support for all children and their families.
During his visit, dr. Aleš Musar, accompanied by Amb. Mateja Prevolšek, Slovenian Ambassador to Ukraine and ITF Director Amb. Tomaž Lovrenčič, visited children and teachers at one of the schools in Izmail participating in the project. There, they observed firsthand the conditions under which classes are conducted under the conditions of constant air raid alarms. The visit was especially meaningful as Ukraine’s educational system has been deeply impacted by the war. Schools now operate under the constant threat of shelling and drone attacks, leading to high levels of stress and burnout among teachers and children alike.
Continuing his visit, dr. Aleš Musar attended the Ismaili Volunteer Festival which showcased the efforts in the field of psychosocial support —an initiative that has already provided support to over 2,000 children. Later, dr. Musar met with volunteers from the local NGO Zhiva-ya at their headquarters and discussed lessons learned and potential for growth of this project in the wider area of the region of Odessa. He also paid a visit to Izmail State Humanitarian University, where he engaged with students and faculty involved in the project. Throughout the visit, dr. Musar underlined the importance of the work of volunteers from Zhiva-Ya and others during war like conditions and reassured them of Slovenia’s and ITF’s support also in the future.
The project, set to conclude at the end of 2024, is made possible through the generous support of the U.S. Department of State Office of the Assistance Coordinator for Europe and Eurasia and Slovenia’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs. We also wish to express our sincere gratitude to the Republic of Korea for its ongoing support of ITF work in Ukraine.
The visit of dr. Aleš Musar in Ukraine has proven again that, as the conflict in Ukraine continues to impact countless lives, the demand for projects focused on psychological rehabilitation and education remains critical. Despite the significant strides made through the “Mental Health and Psychosocial Assistance to Children and Their Families” project, many children and families remain in desperate need of support to regain their stability and well-being.
By coming together in solidarity and support, the international community can significantly contribute to rebuilding lives and enhancing community resilience for the youngest and most vulnerable members of society. ITF in Ukraine remains focused on victim assistance, with a strong emphasis on mental health, medical rehabilitation and psychosocial support.