Mathematics to Stay Mandatory in Ukraine's National Multi-Subject Test, Prime Minister Confirms

Yulia Svyrydenko's Statement on Math in the NMT

According to Главком: Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has confirmed that mathematics will remain a compulsory subject in the National Multi-Subject Test (NMT). Speaking at the conference 'Education of New Ukraine 2.0', she stated that the Cabinet of Ministers does not support proposals to remove its mandatory status. According to Svyrydenko,

'it is not possible to do that. I believe we need to speak honestly with each other... I don't think the structure will change next year, or in a year, or in any other period'

. The NMT is a key entrance exam for Ukrainian universities, and this decision reinforces the government's stance on core academic requirements.

NMT Structure and Legislative Proposals

Currently, the NMT format includes three mandatory subjects: Ukrainian language, mathematics, and Ukrainian history, plus one elective subject-a '3+1' structure. However, a bill registered in the Verkhovna Rada proposes reducing the mandatory subjects from three to two, sparking backlash from the educational community. Education Minister Oksen Lisovyi also opposes this bill, and the Ministry of Education refuses to make mathematics an elective.

According to a sociological survey, 11% of Ukrainian citizens believe mathematics was not useful to them after school, and 6% advocate for reducing teaching hours for the subject. These findings were released by Volodymyr Paniotto, Director General of the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology. Another registered bill suggests removing mathematics from the NMT's mandatory subjects starting in 2027.

Svyrydenko emphasized that easing requirements could have negative consequences:

'Of course, human nature always wants things easier, simpler, but in reality, such a decision could only make things worse-for both the applicant and ourselves'

. The country's leadership believes that keeping mathematics in the mandatory curriculum is vital for future generations.

This government statement underscores the importance of mathematics as a core subject in Ukraine's education system. Despite differing public opinions and legislative initiatives proposing changes to math's status, the government remains firm in its decision. This reflects a commitment to providing quality education that prepares young people for modern challenges.

While the Prime Minister's statement underscores the government's commitment to maintaining mathematics as a core subject, the ongoing debate in the educational sector raises significant concerns. Recently, the Education Minister criticized the proposal to eliminate math from mandatory subjects, highlighting the absurdity of such a move and the potential repercussions for students' academic foundations. This dialogue reflects broader tensions within the education system as stakeholders advocate for preserving rigorous standards amidst calls for reform.