Students at Kyiv National University protested, demanding the rector's dismissal

According to Socportal, the participants and female protesters accused the head of the university of unethical behaviour and corruption. The day before, intimate videos allegedly filmed in one of the university's classrooms, with the rector's participation, were circulated on social networks.

The protesters are demanding an inspection by the Ukrainian Education and Science Ministry and the temporary suspension of the rector during the investigation. During the action, the following slogans are heard: "Bugrov do away", "Hear the students or leave", "Riot, love, don't give away your rights".

The protest action was announced by the Student Parliament of KNU. The appeal states:

From this minute, every student of the University, according to the Law, has the right not to attend classes with the full right to withdraw at any moment. We do not encourage you to be truant, but the administration has no right to prosecute it.

It was also supported by students from other universities and the student trade union "Pryama Diia".

Students announced the following requirements:

• a public and specific response to questions about the events in one of the university's classrooms, including things and persons captured on video;
• readiness for independent verification and a public statement of agreement to undergo independent DNA testing;
• suspension of the rector during the MES inspection;
• guarantees of no pressure or harassment of students, employees, and witnesses in connection with participation in the inspection or protest.

At the end of the action, Volodymyr Bugrov met with students in one of the university classrooms. A fervent discussion took place, during which he stated that the accusations were far-fetched and inspired by political opponents. As it is known, in May, elections for the post of rector of KNU will be held.

At the same time, Bougrov confirmed that there were proceedings against him over inaccurate data in his tax declaration, but the case is being appealed. According to the NAPC certificate, a number of violations were found during the audit of Volodymyr Bougrov's declaration for 2023. In particular, the document did not indicate the use of his son's car, Volkswagen Golf 2015, even though the rector himself owns a Mitsubishi Outlander 2022. Bugrov claims that the reproaches leveled against him do not correspond to reality. At the same time, during a rivalry with students, he noted that in case the violation is confirmed in court, he will not run for the position of rector and may go early.

Bugrov reacted sharply to the statements of female students about possible cases of sexual harassment by teachers and the lack of proper response from the administration. According to him, there are no official appeals to law enforcement agencies or courts, and therefore no confirmed evidence. At the same time, the students said that the administration ignores the problem of power relations and actually shifts responsibility to the victims.

About the scandalous video, the rector stated that it is not true. Students insist that Bugrov himself can sue for the protection of his honour and dignity. The rector, in turn, says that since the video was distributed anonymously, the court will not accept the suit.

It is known that back in 2022, on the Internet circulated correspondence between Bugrov and female students and staff of the University. In particular, according to these materials, the rector allegedly agreed on a joint pastime, commented on intimate photos, and sent his own. Then, as now, Bugrov denied all the accusations and claimed possible political or informational pressure.

As of now, no official reaction from the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine regarding the protesters' new demands has been made public.