Today, Ukrainian children can study full-time only in those schools where there is a certified shelter. UN helps Ukrainian schoolchildren return to full-time education Peace and Security
The Ukrainian village of Ingulka, located about 40 kilometers north of Nikolaev, is home to about 2 thousand people. There is only one school here, where children from neighboring villages also go. Recently, two of its basement spaces were converted into safe and comfortable shelters where children can come for in-person classes.
The renovation was carried out with the support of the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) and Denmark.
Today, Ukrainian children can study full-time only in those schools where there is a certified shelter. When an air raid warning is called, teachers take children underground, sometimes for long hours. If there is no shelter or it is in poor condition, training is only possible online.
“Schools were built with basement shelters before, back in Soviet times. Then they gradually fell into disrepair,” explains Vadim Kobylinsky, director of the Ingulsky Lyceum. villages.
“Our children have already returned to classes. The teachers are happy. Now, when another air raid alert starts, students simply go underground and continue their lessons without interruption – in a cozy, comfortable, well-lit and warm room,” says Kobylinsky.
“We support our students and want them to develop in different directions. We have a folklore ensemble that has won numerous competitions. There is a professional football coach working with the team. Children have many opportunities outside of school,” he adds.
UNOPS engineer Grigory Komisarov, who was responsible for repairing the shelters, says he was glad to create a safer environment for schoolchildren.
“The Ukrainian education system has suffered greatly since the invasion began, because attending classes has become much more difficult. Because of this, many families make the difficult decision to leave and start a life elsewhere. By creating such shelters, we help future generations stay and grow in Ukraine,” he noted.