Uzhhorod National University and Chateau Chizay sign cooperation memorandum

This partnership is especially relevant as the university continues to actively develop its department dedicated to training future viticulturists and winemakers. Practical experience significantly enhances the quality of education and graduates’ competitiveness. In this way, Chateau Chizay contributes to the development of the industry, which the company considers one of its key missions.

Rector of Uzhhorod National University, Volodymyr Smolanka, commented:

“The memorandum signed with our partners at Chateau Chizay is important both for today and for the future development of the university. It opens a wide range of cooperation opportunities, primarily for our Department of Horticulture and Viticulture, where nearly ten years ago we planted our first vineyard and now already produce our own wine.

Most importantly, it supports the educational process. Thanks to his authority and connections, Mr. Gutman has expressed his willingness to help organize educational activities involving both his team and specialists from leading wine-producing countries. This knowledge will be invaluable for our students.

This is also significant for Zakarpattia as a whole, as we see how the wine industry is developing in the region. We are confident that our graduates will join the ranks of professionals. Notably, this field of study is becoming increasingly popular among applicants.”

Hugo Gutman, founder and owner of Chateau Chizay, added:

“Chateau Chizay is not just a producer. We are committed to the development of the industry, of Zakarpattia, and of Ukraine as a whole. We actively participate in international events and implement educational initiatives. We have the experience and knowledge, and we are ready to share them. That is why we established Chateau Chizay Academy and organize educational seminars for those working in viticulture, winemaking, and hospitality.

Cooperation with Uzhhorod National University is a natural continuation of this work. Last year, we already held a practical training seminar for future viticulturists and winemakers, inviting them to join our team during the harvest. We also introduced students of tourism and economics to our production.

I look forward to fruitful cooperation with the region’s leading university. We plan to welcome students for internships, which will be beneficial both for the company and for the next generation of professionals. And perhaps, in time, we will welcome UzhNU graduates to our team.”

You can read more about the 2025 harvest with students and guests in our article.