The 260th Anniversary of Mathematician, Philosopher, and University Rector Tymofii Osypovsky: The University Commemorates

At the beginning of the 19th century, the young university founded by Vasyl Karazin was just beginning to spread its wings. Its future depended on those who would fill its lecture halls not only with words but also with the spirit of true science. One such luminary was Tymofii Osypovsky – a mathematician, philosopher, educator, and rector who transformed Kharkiv University (now Karazin University) into a center of progress.

Tymofii Osypovsky was born in 1765 and demonstrated an extraordinary aptitude for the exact sciences from an early age. By 1783, he had studied at the Vladimir Theological Seminary and became its best student. Tymofii Fedorovych worked as a teacher of physics and mathematics and was a professor of physical and mathematical sciences from 1800 to 1803. He played an active role in the establishment of Kharkiv University. At the end of 1802, on behalf of the trustee, Count Severin Pototsky, Vasyl Karazin offered Tymofii Osypovsky a position in the Department of Pure Mathematics.

In 1807, the General Assembly of the university awarded him a doctorate. From 1811 to 1820, he also taught in the Department of Applied Mathematics, delivering courses in mathematics, mechanics, optics, and applied astronomy. Among his students was the renowned mathematician Mykhailo Vasylovych Ostrogradsky.

From 1813 to 1820, Osypovsky served as the rector of Kharkiv University. During this time, he not only advanced mathematical disciplines but also reformed the approach to teaching natural sciences. His main work, the three-volume Course in Mathematics, became the first systematic mathematics textbook in Ukraine. In this work, he did not simply explain equations and geometric axioms but built a bridge between theory and practical tasks for engineers, surveyors, and astronomers. His work significantly influenced the further development of higher mathematics.

A man of progressive views, Tymofii Osypovsky supported Enlightenment ideas and advocated for rationalism and critical thinking. This stance led to his conflict with the church authorities. In 1820, under pressure from reactionary forces, he was forced to resign as rector and later had to leave his teaching position altogether.

However, like all great ideas, Osypovsky’s legacy did not disappear. His works continued to be studied by students, and his approach to science laid the foundation for future generations of Ukrainian mathematicians.

The 260th anniversary of Tymofii Osypovsky’s birth is an opportunity to remember not only his contributions but also his courage to be a man of science in times when truth was not always valued. Today, as Karazin University once again overcomes great challenges, his legacy reminds us: knowledge is a power that no obstacle can halt.