Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
November 26, 2025 Peace and security
Since the beginning of the year, more than 340 educational institutions in Ukraine have been damaged or completely destroyed as a result of the ongoing full-scale war. This disrupts the educational process and deprives children of their right to an education, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) reported today.
This brings the total number of schools damaged or destroyed since the war escalated in February 2022 to 2,800. Since these are only UN-confirmed incidents, the actual figure is likely higher.
"Schools must remain protected spaces where children can learn safely, even during war. In times of crisis, education provides children with support and a sense of normalcy," noted UNICEF Country Representative Munir Mammadzadeh.
"Schools are more than just places for learning: they provide children with comprehensive development through interaction with classmates and teachers, and also provide access to other social services," he added.
Threats to children
This school year – the fourth under conditions of a full-scale war – 4.6 million young residents of Ukraine continue face dangers and obstacles during the educational process. Attacks damage and destroy schools, threatening the lives of children. Air raid sirens interrupt classes. Many schools, especially in frontline areas, are closed due to fighting or a lack of adequate shelters, forcing nearly a million children to study online.
For those studying in a blended format or entirely remotely, the lack of face-to-face interaction with teachers and peers complicates the educational process and exacerbates the negative effects of war on psychological health and development.
"Despite all the challenges, Ukrainian children are determined to continue their education – in schools or online, in classrooms or in shelters. They believe in a future where their dreams will come true," Mammadzade said.
Investing in the future
As part of the response, implemented by UNICEF in collaboration with the government and local partners, more than half a million children have gained access to inclusive formal and non-formal education, including safe in-person learning—the most effective learning format. Catch-up classes have also been organized for those who were forced to miss some classes.
Read also:
Numbers and faces: how war changed the lives of Ukrainian schoolchildren
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Safe Schools Declaration, UNICEF recalls. At that time, the global community pledged to protect children's right to education during wartime, ensure the continuity of education, and prevent the use of schools for military purposes.
At a two-day International Conference on the Declaration, which concludes today in Nairobi, UNICEF is joining government representatives, children, youth activists and other partners to discuss how best to support education in conflict-affected settings and how to strengthen this global commitment.
Education during wartime is not a privilege – it is a necessity, the UN agency emphasizes. UNICEF calls on international partners to continue supporting Ukraine's education system. The fund is convinced that this is a vital investment in children and the country's future.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.