On 28 April, the World Day for Safety and Health at Work is observed globally. This day serves as a reminder that the health and lives of workers are of paramount importance, and that safety must remain central to every stage of the production process. Metinvest Polytechnic is founded on these principles, preparing a new generation of occupational safety professionals who will not merely adhere to established standards, but will proactively foster a transformative safety culture within both Ukrainian and international enterprises.
Today, occupational safety extends beyond mere compliance with instructions. It is a comprehensive risk management system that demands extensive knowledge, strategic insight, and a strong sense of responsibility. Metinvest Polytechnic trains precisely such specialists through its bachelor's programme in "Occupational Safety and Production Processes" and its master's programme in "Occupational Safety Audit and Consulting".
Students are taught by seasoned, practising lecturers with decades of experience in industrial enterprises. Theory here is tightly integrated with real cases, practical examples, and analyses of production scenarios where each decision carries potentially life-threatening consequences.
Yuriia PYLYPSKA, a student at Metinvest Polytechnic, states the following. "The training is highly engaging and firmly grounded in practical application. We do more than attend lectures – we develop the ability to evaluate situations and identify risks that are not immediately apparent. This enhances our understanding of the importance of every correct safety-related decision."
A distinctive aspect of the training is the opportunity to undertake internships at the production facilities of Metinvest Group, the leading enterprise in Ukraine’s metallurgical industry. Students operate in real conditions, confront genuine challenges, and learn to make decisions on which both project success and human health may depend. Diana ROMANOVA, a student specialising in occupational safety, remarks the following: "Working in a production environment trains you to quickly recognise critical details, accurately evaluate risks, and respond with a strong sense of responsibility. The profession of an occupational health and safety engineer embodies a profound responsibility for the wellbeing of every individual within the enterprise. Here at Metinvest Polytechnic, we acquire not only knowledge, but also a deep appreciation of the responsibility that this profession entails."
The training is designed to cultivate proactive thinking in students, enabling them to prevent accidents rather than merely respond to them. Yevhen KRYVOROTKO, a student in the "Occupational Safety and Production Processes" programme, also shares the following: "We are taught to anticipate danger before it arises. This is not just meeting standards - it's real proactive work to ensure that no one is harmed through negligence or carelessness."
The university also provides opportunities for those who balance their studies with employment. The flexible schedule enables many students to gain practical experience while studying, allowing them to apply their knowledge to professional activities more swiftly. Marina ALEKSIEIEVA, who combines work with her studies, adds the following: "A flexible schedule is a significant advantage. I apply the knowledge directly in my work, witness its effectiveness, and feel that I am continually developing into a more competent professional."
A distinctive feature of Metinvest Polytechnic is its involvement in the international Vision Zero initiative, a programme that brings together companies and organisations committed to achieving zero workplace injuries and illnesses. Metinvest Polytechnic was the first Ukrainian higher education institution to join this global initiative. Nataliia VOLODCHENKOVA, programme guarantor and expert in occupational safety, observes the following: "Metinvest Polytechnic is where the next generation of leaders in occupational safety and security is shaped. We equip young people to think proactively, apply modern methodologies, and strive towards the goal of zero workplace injuries. Our involvement in Vision Zero is not merely symbolic; it reflects a genuine commitment to transforming the culture of workplace safety in Ukraine and beyond."
On the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, Metinvest Polytechnic emphasises the following: true safety begins not with instructions, but with individuals who are genuinely committed to safeguarding every life. It is precisely these kinds of professionals – specialists who will make industry more advanced, safer, and more humane – who are being trained within the university today.