The protection of children and childhood is a key area of the Government’s work. This was emphasised by Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal at a meeting of the Cabinet of Ministers on 12 November.

According to him, first and foremost, it is about safe, high-quality education. The Government is doing everything possible to ensure this. In particular, it is systematically implementing a comprehensive School Offline policy to maximise the involvement of children in full-time education. It has also allocated UAH 7.5 billion to build shelters in the frontline and border areas. This will allow 100,000 students to return to classrooms.

“UAH 1.2 billion has been allocated for the purchase of school buses. Out of more than 500 planned, more than 400 have already been purchased. More than 240,000 devices have been provided to schools for children and teachers. UAH 2 billion has been allocated for meals for primary school children, and UAH 1.5 billion for the modernisation of school canteens. Officers of the Educational Security Service protect schoolchildren directly in educational institutions,” said Denys Shmyhal.

In addition, starting from the new year, the Government has provided for a monthly allowance of UAH 1,000 for teachers, which will increase to UAH 2,000 from 1 September. The Prime Minister stressed that this was only part of the efforts to create an effective and child-friendly educational environment.