OCU academy students are taught to handle firearms and UAVs

OCU students learn to handle automatic weapons. Photo: VOTA Facebook

At the Volyn Orthodox Theological Academy of the OCU, they have begun teaching students how to handle automatic weapons and operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). As reported by the institution's press service, the first classes took place on March 20, 2026.

"Veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war and reserve officer Serhiy Hodlevsky familiarized VOTA students with small arms and the basics of operating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in virtual reality," the message of the OCU academy reads.

Photos were published on social media showing young people in cassocks learning to handle firearms. According to OCU representatives, a basic military training program has been introduced for students.

On the website of the Volyn Academy, they claim that it is the leading spiritual educational institution of the OCU, providing bachelor's and master's degree training in Orthodox theology, as well as preparing clergy and staff for church structures.

As the UOJ reported, in Mynkivtsi, OCU activists attacked an AFU soldier.

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