A Ukrainian talks about his escape from Kiev to Graz. Thanks to his work, he is one of the few exceptions – many displaced people are still looking for work.
“I was awakened by bombs at five in the morning. Then I realized: it’s war!” Oleksandr Bondarenko recalls February 24, 2022 in Kiev, when Russian troops invaded Ukraine and the country plunged into disaster almost overnight. Friends in the south of Melitopol also reported attacks. “Then I realized that it was not for one day would take. I knew we had to get out of here, a normal life is not possible here.”
Immediate help from Graz
And on the very first day, help came from Graz via Facebook: “Professor Graier from Med Uni sent me a document that I could come here for further training.” The Ukrainian had been employed there before: “I thought I would come back as a guest.” Unfortunately it turned out differently.
Because train tickets to the west sold out within minutes, Oleksandr and his family stayed in the basement for a while: “You don’t remember where it’s safe. The locked basement protects against armed Russians, but not against the bombs. It is a constant game between life and death.” Added to that was the cold, little water, no information and a permit trip, but in the end he had one of the few exit permits in his hands.
“We’re already settled”
The researcher, his wife, his 13-year-old daughter and his mother have been here for almost nine months now: “We have settled in well.” Although Oleksandr himself says that his German needs to be improved. Also because he can imagine staying longer. This one is now fixed until 2026: “About another project.”
Many refugees are still looking for work
He is aware that he is one of the lucky Ukrainians who found a job: “It’s easier in research, I was integrated right away.” Another twelve refugee researchers were able to leave Ukraine through a program at the University of Graz, TU Graz admitted. 68 students – 30 are already on site.
Incidentally, currently 1,200 Ukrainians have valid work permits in Styria.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
