Prime Minister Meets with Education Minister
On January 30, 2024, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko held a meeting with Minister of Education and Science Oksen Lisovyi. Their discussion centered on critical issues for the education sector, including safety, the development of colleges, the reform of the New Ukrainian School (NUS), and funding for these initiatives.
During the meeting, it was confirmed that 30 communities will receive over 2 billion hryvnias to construct shelters in educational institutions. The government has approved the allocation of this subvention, with the first funds directed to:
- Schools in communities facing the highest level of risk;
- Military lyceums.
This funding is part of a broader effort to protect students and staff amid ongoing conflict. A further 5 billion hryvnias is earmarked for shelters in general secondary education institutions in 2026. Additionally, 1 billion hryvnias is allocated for modernizing professional and vocational pre-higher education. These funds will be used to update laboratories and classrooms under the "100 Workshops" project, complete ongoing projects, and improve energy efficiency.
Prospects and Importance of the New Ukrainian School Reform
By the end of 2024, 500 educational institutions will be equipped with alternative power sources. Yuliia Svyrydenko emphasized the significance of the NUS reform, stating:
“Today, the New Ukrainian School represents a systemic shift from the post-Soviet education model to a modern system that meets current demands and challenges.” — Yuliia Svyrydenko
The government's substantial investment in education, particularly for safety measures, highlights its commitment to adapting the system to present-day realities. The NUS reform, which involves transitioning to new educational standards, aims to improve the quality of education and ensure it meets the needs of a modern society. This comprehensive approach underscores the priority placed on safeguarding the educational process during a time of national crisis.