Winter Holidays Extended for Kyiv Schools
Kyiv's schools will remain closed for winter holidays from January 19 until February 1, 2026. This decision was made by the Kyiv City Defense Council in response to the current national situation. The academic year for the capital's schools will now conclude no later than July 1.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko emphasized that the safety of children and the preservation of the educational process were the top priorities behind this move. With Ukraine's energy infrastructure under severe strain due to ongoing Russian attacks, the extension is seen as crucial for ensuring suitable learning conditions. This decision reflects the broader challenges facing public services during the ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal also confirmed the extension of the winter break, stating that formal classes for Kyiv's schools will officially resume on February 1, 2026.
Source: Denys Shmyhal
As part of broader measures to stabilize the national power grid, Kyiv will also restrict electricity usage for external lighting starting January 16.
National Context and the Education System
The prolonged school closure in Kyiv underscores the severity of the national situation, particularly concerning child safety and critical infrastructure stability. This action forms part of a wider strategy to safeguard the educational process during wartime and a severe energy crisis. Authorities anticipate that these steps will help protect children's well-being and maintain the continuity of education in the capital amidst these extraordinary circumstances.