“For me, this isn’t just about studying, it’s a new way to serve my country, and a clear choice to be where real change happens” — Viktor Malkov

The Master’s programme in “Anti-Corruption Studies” at the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy brings together specialists from various fields to work together to understand corruption and learn how to drive change in the country.

Viktor Malkov, a former soldier and entrepreneur, has been awarded a scholarship to cover his education in 2025 by the International Renaissance Foundation and has joined the “Anti-Corruption Studies” programme. We spoke to Mr Malkov about his path to education and his motivation for joining the programme.

The path to study

Victor explains that his path to the programme was formed through his experience of military service and war. Justice ceases to be merely a word; it becomes a matter of trust, responsibility and even life itself:

“I have seen with my own eyes how corruption destroys systems from within and weakens the state at the most critical moments. It is precisely this that has given me not just an interest, but an internal need to understand its nature and mechanisms. I chose the ‘Anti-Corruption Studies’ programme because it offers not superficial answers, but depth, tools and a way of thinking. For me, this isn’t just about studying, it’s a new way to serve my country, and a clear choice to be where real change happens” .

Valuable knowledge gained during study

According to Victor, one of the most valuable results of the study was the understanding of corruption as a systemic phenomenon, as well as the work on real-life case studies provided by the lecturers, which demonstrate how it all works in practice:

It helps not only to recognise corruption risks, but also to think more deeply — to analyse the causes, identify the system’s weaknesses and distinguish between symptoms and root causes.

Particularly important were the real-life case studies, which demonstrated how corruption works in practice, as well as gaining an insight into international approaches. I began to view these processes differently – with greater depth, calmness and strategic thinking. This knowledge provides not just understanding, but the ability to take action. And for me, that is the greatest value.”

Why is anti-corruption education important?

Viktor believes that education in the field of anti-corruption is the foundation of a strong state, and without an understanding of its nature, the fight against corruption becomes nothing more than a imitation:

“Corruption is a crime, it is a systemic disease that undermines trust, the economy and the country’s future. Without a deep understanding of its nature, the fight against it becomes a mere pretence. Education shapes a new kind of person – one who is capable of thinking strategically and acting responsibly. It creates an environment where honesty becomes the normal rather than the exception. For our country, which is going through war and reconstruction, this is not merely a question of development, it is a question of survival. And it is through education that the foundations of a just society are laid.”

Knowledge and skills upon completion of the course

After completing the programme, Victor says enthusiastically that he would like to set up his own political project or party that would speak openly about the fight against corruption and poverty:

“I plan to apply this knowledge where it can have a real impact, namely in the public sector, where the rules of the game are set. For me, it is important not just to understand the problem, but to influence its resolution. I also do not rule out the possibility of launching a political project or party that will speak openly and forcefully about the fight against corruption and poverty. Perhaps my approaches seem radical, but they are driven by experience and a desire to see a strong, just state. I want to work at the intersection of practice, analysis and decision-making. To pass on this knowledge to others and foster a new culture of accountability. For me, this is a continuation of serving our country, but now through systemic change.”

“I am truly grateful to ACREC and the Kyiv-Mohyla Academy for the opportunity to study on this programme. It is not just an education, it is a community of people who think, who take action, and who strive for change. It is a great honour for me to be part of this community. It is here that a new generation of people capable of changing the country is being shaped. And I am grateful for your trust and the opportunity to be among you. You are INCREDIBLE.”