Today, on 20 June 2018, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Programme “Decentralisation Offering Better Results and Efficiency” (DOBRE) has launched the first rural school observatory in the Baykovetska hromada of the Ternopil Oblast. It is a rural observatory having a powerful telescope with an auto aim, modern computer equipment and practical educational materials. The joint efforts of the USAID DOBRE and the hromada have succeeded in repairing the premises to locate the telescope and equipping the observatory with the necessary training materials. From now on, the AH resident and guests will be able to hold astronomy lessons, carry out research, join the work of the Observatory online and develop STEM-education in the hromada.

Marie Yovanovitch, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the USA, noted:

“Telescopes and observatories in the Baykovetska hromada are a very good opportunity for the residents and guests of the hromada to study, explore and learn about space. The AH pupils may one day be future scientists and inventors who will not only help Ukraine develop its technical potential, but also promote its achievements at the international level. Who knows, probably, among you there are those, who will compete with Elon Musk. Here, in the Baykovetska AH, where pupils have the opportunity to reach their dreams and endeavors, your future begins. I look forward to the hromada’s success stories and I wish that your colleagues and peers far beyond its borders get to know about your achievements.”

Barry Reed, USAID DOBRE Programme Director, said:

“The Baykovetska hromada decided to create an advanced astronomical classroom in the hub school, and we supported this idea and provided the hromada with a powerful telescope and equipment. The Observatory gives pupils the opportunity not only to have access to top-notch sectoral education, but also to increase the economic capacity of the hromada, attracting enthusiasts and astronomy amateurs from other corners of Ukraine to the the Baykovetska AH.”

The full version is available in Ukrainian – please click HERE