On October 13, 2026, a commemorative gathering was held in Drohobych to mark the 60th anniversary of the erection of the monument to Ivan Franko — a man whose words became a spiritual pillar for generations, and whose life was a testament of service to Ukraine, its culture, its language, and its people. Unveiled on October 9, 1966, to commemorate the 110th anniversary of Ivan Franko’s birth, the monument has become not only an adornment to the city but also a symbol of the enduring bond between Drohobych and the “Great Stonecutter” (Velykyi Kameniar).
Speakers discussed the history of the monument’s construction and the enduring presence of Ivan Franko in the life of Ukraine, the Drohobych community, and our university. Among them were Roman Pastukh—a public figure, writer, journalist, and local historian; Mariia Stetsyk—an Associate Professor in the Department of the Ukrainian Language at the Ivan Franko Drohobych State Pedagogical University and a member of the Drohobych City Council; and Stepan Yakym—a prominent cultural activist and Honorary Citizen of Drohobych.
The event was further enriched by an exceptional artistic program. Solemn anthems and songs—featuring lyrics by Ivan Franko or dedicated to him—were performed by the choir of the Faculty of Primary Education and Arts (directed by Liubomyra Lastovetska and Iryna Matiichyn), as well as by Associate Professors Svitlana Kyshakevych, Halyna Stets, and Oksana Bobechko. The literary program was presented by members of the “Kryla” (Wings) literary and artistic studio from the Faculty of Ukrainian and Foreign Philology—Yuliia Kyrch, Mariia Murdza, Alina Kuryk, and Svitlana Doboni—along with first-year students from the faculty.
On this day, just as sixty years ago, warm words were once again spoken in honor of Ivan Franko, and flowers were laid at his feet—a living token of our gratitude, respect, and love.
May these flowers serve as a symbol of our enduring memory and our unity around the great words of Franko.
