Karazin Inspires: Oleksandra Yefymenko – The First Woman to Earn a Doctoral Degree in Eastern Europe

28 february 2025 year

Karazin University rightfully takes pride in its students and alumni. Among them is Oleksandra Yefymenko, a Ukrainian historian and the first woman to earn a doctoral degree in Eastern Europe.

This groundbreaking event took place in 1910, marking an unprecedented achievement. At that time, women were forced to go abroad to receive a university education.

She was awarded a Doctor of Historical Sciences degree without defending a dissertation — her 1906 scholarly work on the history of the Ukrainian people was recognized as a doctoral dissertation. Additionally, by decision of the faculty council of the Higher Women's Courses, she was granted the title of professor.

We are proud!