On July 30, the Prime Minister chaired an all-Ukrainian conference call with representatives of local authorities and line ministries. Among other topics raised were the issues of preparation for the upcoming academic year.

Denys Shmyhal noted that under the law on higher education, universities have a level of autonomy and self-government allowing them to independently determine the forms of education and forms of organization of the educational process. The Academic Council of a higher educational institution adopts decisions on the organization of the educational process and determines the terms of study at the appropriate levels.

"There are actually 1.2 million students in Ukraine, and it is critical to ensure the educational process taking place for them in a safe environment. The decision on whether students will study remotely or go to university should be made taking into account the epidemiological situation in each region. Of course, all decisions must be made to ensure the safety of our children," emphasized the Prime Minister.

The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine recommends that higher education institutions plan the beginning of the academic year, taking into account the quarantine restrictions established by Government Decree №641. In case of a favorable situation, the Ministry of Education and Science recommends starting the 2020/2021 academic year according to the following schedule:

- for first-year students (Bachelor's degree), who this year enter higher education institutions in the period from 1 to 15 September 2020;

- for senior students, starting from the second year of study, from September 1, 2020;

- for students of Master’s degree of the first year of study - in the period from 11 to 15 September 2020.