On 30 May 2026, the celebration of Chemist’s Day and the “Magic of Reactions” Open Day at the Educational and Scientific Institute “Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology” of the Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies became not only a large-scale career guidance and science outreach event, but also a traditional reunion of graduates from different generations of Khimtekh.

Every year, on the last Saturday of May, the Fountain Square of the SEI USUCT is filled with a special atmosphere. On this day, graduates from different years return to their alma mater to walk once again along familiar paths, meet former classmates, recall their student years, and feel themselves part of the large university family.

This year’s celebration once again demonstrated the enduring connection between generations of USUCT, as the Fountain Square brought together graduates from different decades, lecturers who had taught several generations of students, industry leaders, young professionals, and current students. For many guests, the reunion was an opportunity not only to reconnect with friends and mentors but also to see how their alma mater continues to evolve and develop.

Particularly symbolic was the fact that on this day, alongside its graduates, the university warmly welcomed future students. Prospective applicants had the opportunity to explore academic programmes, communicate with lecturers and faculty representatives, and learn more about educational opportunities and modern learning environments. Thus, the event brought together on one platform those who once only dreamed of entering Khimtekh, those who are currently studying there, and those who have already built successful careers thanks to the knowledge gained at the university.

An important part of the festive day was traditionally the USUCT History Museum, which warmly opened its doors to visitors. For many alumni, exploring the museum exhibition became a true journey back to their youth. Guests carefully examined archival photographs, documents, and exhibits, recognized familiar faces, recalled their lecturers, student life, scientific achievements, and memorable events that had left a lasting mark on their lives.

On Chemist’s Day, the museum was filled with a quiet, profound, and at the same time very warm atmosphere. While festive events, creative performances, and meetings were taking place on the Fountain Square, the museum remained a space of memory where the long-standing history of Khimtekh came to life. Every exhibit became a source of new memories, and every story formed part of the university’s rich legacy, which continues to be shaped by new generations of students and lecturers.

Student guides played an important role in conducting tours and supporting the museum’s activities, helping visitors immerse themselves in the history of the university. Letters of appreciation for their active work in the USUCT History Museum during the celebration were awarded to Alina Hordiienko (group 4-FIL-65), Anastasiia Kulyk (group 2-FP-65), Anastasiia Fitkovska (group 1-SOa-3), Kseniia Lysenko (group 2-OT-25), Mariia Verbytska (group 4-VP-9), Arina Kulachko (group 2-SO(a)-90), and Oleksandra Sniehur (group 4-PO-12).

Sincere conversations, shared photographs, memories of student years, and знакомства with the achievements of today’s SEI USUCT once again confirmed that a university is much more than classrooms and laboratories. It is people, friendship, professional growth, shared values, and a collective memory that connects generations.

It is meetings like these that help preserve the living connection between the past and the future of Khimtekh. Chemist’s Day remains a special occasion that brings together the large USUCT family year after year. The university sincerely thanks all alumni who returned to their alma mater, shared their memories, and once again proved that affection for Khimtekh knows no expiration date. We look forward to seeing you again next year!