Leading Ukrainian universities ban faculty from using Telegram

Source: National Aviation University, Institute of Mass Information (IMI)

Kyiv’s Taras Shevchenko National University and the National Aviation University  have both introduced bans on using Telegram app for official purposes.

Starting November 11, 2024, Shevchenko University faculty and staff will no longer be allowed to use the Russian-linked application for work-related correspondence. The directive signed by Rector Volodymyr Bugrov outlaws not only the app’s use and installation on devices but also any sharing of official information through Telegram. Departments have been instructed to pull the plug on their Telegram channels, and the university is currently surveying staff and students to select an alternative messaging platform.

National Aviation University acting rector Kseniya Semenova issued a similar order on October 31, 2024. Faculty are barred from installing Telegram or using its web version on any work-related devices, including personal ones used for work. The exchange of work-related information over Telegram is also no longer permitted.

These measures follow similar restrictions recently put in place at Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University aMinistry of Education and Science directive demanded to quit Telegram use for official communications.