In a move to ensure the safety and continuity of education for its schoolchildren amidst missile threats and ongoing conflict, Ukraine has announced plans to build the country’s first underground school in the city of Kharkiv. The underground school will serve as a shelter, allowing thousands of children to continue their in-person education securely, even during times of missile attacks. This initiative comes in response to the extensive destruction of educational facilities during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with over 360 facilities destroyed and 3,000 damaged since the start of the conflict in 2022.
The UN children agency Unicef reports that only a third of Ukraine’s schoolchildren currently have the opportunity to study in-person due to the ongoing deadly missile attacks and shelling. Many of the affected students have been forced to attend classes in underground metro stations and makeshift shelters, often without basic amenities such as proper heating. The establishment of the underground school aims to address these challenges and provide a safe and conducive environment for learning.
The announcement by Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov emphasizes that the underground school will meet modern requirements for defensive buildings. The city authorities are committed to maintaining educational expenditure without reduction amidst budget constraints. Although specific details about the opening date and capacity of the underground school have not been disclosed, last month, over 1,000 Kharkiv pupils began their new school year at five underground metro stations converted into “metro-schools.” These students commute via buses and follow two shifts, guaranteeing equal access to education for all.
The urgency to safeguard the education system has gained international attention, with the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency stating that many schools within the member bloc are struggling to accommodate and integrate children who have fled the war in Ukraine. Approximately 1.3 million Ukrainian children currently reside within the EU. By addressing these challenges and creating a modern underground school, Ukraine sets a precedent for other countries facing similar conflicts to prioritize the protection and education of their youth.
The significance of Ukraine’s first underground school extends beyond its immediate impact on education. It symbolizes the resilience and determination of a nation under duress, striving to provide a sense of normalcy and stability for its future generations. Additionally, the construction and operation of the underground school will create employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy, promoting recovery and growth in the midst of adversity.
It is essential for the international community to take note of Ukraine’s efforts and provide necessary support to ensure the success of the underground school project. Financial assistance, technical expertise, and collaborations could assist in expediting the construction process and guaranteeing the highest standards of safety and functionality. Moreover, sharing best practices and lessons learned from Ukraine’s experience can help other conflict-affected regions develop strategies to protect and educate their own populations effectively.
The establishment of Ukraine’s first underground school marks a significant step forward in safeguarding the well-being and future of its schoolchildren. It portrays Ukraine’s unwavering commitment to resilience, education, and the values of human rights even in the face of ongoing conflict. As Ukraine builds this testament to hope and progress, the international community must lend its support and recognition, standing in solidarity with the nation and its aspirations for a brighter future.
