OPEN EDUCATION: THE RELEVANCE OF PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS IN THE CONTEXT OF MODERN CHANGES AND CHALLENGES BASED оN THE EXAMPLE OF I. YA. HORBACHEVSKY TERNOPIL NATIONAL MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH OF UKRAINE

Abstract

Abstract. The article presents methodological approaches to organizing public discussion of educational programs at TNMU. A structured model for engaging stakeholders in the processes of development, revision, and improvement of educational programs is proposed, in accordance with the university’s current regulatory framework — in particular, the Regulations on Educational Programs, Their Monitoring, Review, and Updating Procedures at I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, the requirements of national higher education standards, and relevant international recommendations. The study outlines the main stages of public consultation, including the preparation of draft educational programs, stakeholder outreach, collection and systematization of feedback, and its subsequent analysis and incorporation into the finalized program content. Particular attention is given to mechanisms for effective stakeholder engagement, including students, academic staff, employers, alumni, and representatives of professional associations. The advantages of implementing open academic dialogue are highlighted as a means of enhancing the quality of medical education, ensuring its alignment with the evolving needs of the healthcare system and labor market demands. The article summarizes the practical outcomes of institutionalizing the public discussion procedure at TNMU, which has led to increased relevance of program content, updated curricular components, expanded competency frameworks, and improved overall effectiveness of the educational process. The presented experience may serve as a methodological foundation for other higher education institutions involved in the training of medical and pharmaceutical professionals.