NATIONAL IDENTITY OF STUDENT YOUTH: THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL ASPECTS

The article addresses a pressing issue of Ukrainian education in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war – the formation of national identity among youth. This issue has gained special significance, as it is the younger generation that shapes the future of the state. The authors conduct an in-depth analysis of the concept of national and national-cultural identity based on the works of Ukrainian and foreign scholars, as well as domestic legal documents. Key challenges associated with the identity crisis are identified: the impact of globalization, erosion of national values, information warfare, and alienation – all of which call for new educational approaches. A review of theoretical approaches to understanding national identity and national-cultural identity is provided, alongside an analysis of scientific literature, legislative acts, and historical prerequisites for identity development. Special attention is given to pedagogical conditions and effective methods within extracurricular activities: cultural events, educational training, volunteer work, and project activities that foster national consciousness. Student self-governance, engagement with contemporary heroic figures, objective representation of history, the development of aesthetic taste and patriotic worldview are considered foundational for nurturing a citizen with a clear national identity. The article emphasizes that forming a Ukrainian identity means not only preserving cultural heritage but also integrating into the common European space – where values of freedom, dignity, and self-awareness are upheld. It highlights the importance of developing a "self-concept" in youth and fostering emotional-value-based attitudes toward their nation, language, culture, heroes, and national history. National identity should become part of students’ personal, civic, and professional self-awareness. This material has interdisciplinary relevance and may be useful for scholars, educators, youth mentors, and developers of educational programs in the field of humanities.