Appeal to Revise the National Multi-Subject Test Format
Kyiv's Deputy Mayor, Valentyn Mondriivskyi, is urging a review of the format for the National Multi-Subject Test (NMT), the crucial university entrance exam, due to the impact of prolonged online learning. He emphasizes that registration for the NMT opens on March 5, and the exceptional circumstances facing students must be taken into account. This call highlights the ongoing challenges Ukraine's education system faces amidst the war.
Mondriivskyi noted that NMT registration will be conducted online, as in previous years. However, he stated that due to shelling and extreme cold, students missed nearly a full month of instruction.
"Because of the shelling and the cold, children essentially had an extra month of vacation. This needs to be considered," the deputy mayor remarked.
Need for Improved Communication with the Ministry
He also stressed the importance of better communication with the relevant ministry, stating that the current interaction between regional authorities and the ministry is insufficiently effective.
"The ministry cannot make decisions without understanding what is happening in the regions and without even asking for their position on what they will have to implement," said Mondriivskyi.
He added that the NMT issue is critically important, and the Ministry of Education must consider the views of major cities. "I believe such signals are being received by the government not only from Kyiv but from other regions as well. In short, communication is necessary," Mondriivskyi emphasized.
He pointed out that currently, every school is attempting to organize thematic clubs and extra classes in the core subjects students must take for the NMT after the school year ends.
The remarks from Valentyn Mondriivskyi reflect the harsh realities students confront during wartime and the pressing need to adapt educational processes. Considering the input of local authorities and educational institutions could be a vital step in ensuring equal opportunities for all students preparing for the NMT. Collaboration between the regions and the Ministry of Education is essential to find optimal solutions for maintaining educational quality during a national crisis.