Junior Diplomatic Academy students met with Ukraine’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Tunisia
March 5, 2026
unior Diplomatic Academy students had the opportunity to speak with Volodymyr Khomanets, Ukraine’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Tunisia, who shared insights into diplomatic service, the особенності of working across the African region, and the modern challenges of Ukrainian diplomacy.
At the start of the meeting, the Ambassador delivered a key message to the students:
“Diplomats are not born — they become one. And you are already on that path, having started your journey at the Junior Diplomatic Academy.”
The Ambassador advised students to pursue academic excellence during their higher education and to aim for distinction, as it strengthens their chances of entering public service.
A key topic was diplomatic responsibility. Diplomats speak on behalf of Ukraine, protect its interests, and must carefully consider every word they say. As the Ambassador noted, this makes the margin for error extremely small.
The conversation also explored Ukraine’s growing diplomatic presence in Africa. Students learned that the number of Ukrainian embassies on the continent has nearly doubled in recent years, and that specializing in African studies can offer strong career prospects.
The Ambassador shared his professional experience, highlighting Ukraine’s involvement in a food hub in Ghana, where pasta is produced using Ukrainian flour — a strong example of a long-term, successful economic partnership.
The discussion also focused on how diplomacy shapes a nation’s image.
“The essence of diplomacy lies in presenting your country in a positive light,” the Ambassador noted.
Students were introduced to two strategic approaches Ukraine applies in Africa: a political strategy focused on strengthening interstate relations, and a communication strategy aimed at building Ukraine’s image across the continent.
The meeting also featured a memorable “golden rule” of diplomacy:
“Think seven times before choosing to say nothing.”
Students were highly engaged, asking thoughtful questions, which the Ambassador praised as a sign of their strong preparation. At the end of the session, they expressed gratitude for his service to Ukraine and for the increasing support from African countries, particularly in backing pro-Ukrainian resolutions at the UN.
Rita Kosyak, Head of the Kyiv Palace of Children and Youth project office, thanked the Ambassador for the meeting and invited him to visit the Palace.
Closing the session on a warm note, the Ambassador remarked:
“I’d love to have a Junior Diplomatic Academy notebook.”
The online meeting was conducted as an open and dynamic dialogue, offering students another step toward understanding modern diplomacy — strategic, responsible, and dedicated to advancing Ukraine’s interests worldwide.
