The Oriental Studies Circle

The Oriental Studies Circle (TOSC) is a non-profit and non-governmental organisation focused on intercultural and interreligious dialogue. It was founded in 2013 in Kyiv with an intention to involve, empower, and motivate Ukrainian youth to take an active part in civic society and broaden their personal and professional competences. TOSC aims to encourage the widest possible involvement of young people on the local, national, and international levels by facilitating their access to formal studies (including academic research in Oriental philosophies, cultures, and religious traditions), and a variety of non-formal activities for peacebuilding, human rights, and active citizenship through social inclusion of marginalized youth, integration of young refugees, intercultural, and interfaith dialogue. Through NFE methodology, we encourage lifelong learning and create a sustainable approach, which influences the development of youngsters. We are working with young people to increase their creativity, social entrepreneurship, critical thinking, and applying crucial soft skills in everyday life, especially by collaborating with local stakeholders (schools, universities, municipalities, research centres, advocacy groups, etc.)