**Ukraine’s Educational Diplomacy Rebuilds the Nation**
Despite the challenges of war, Ukraine is rebuilding its nation through educational diplomacy. The country has made significant strides in restoring education, prioritizing in-person learning where possible.
**A Brighter Future for Ukraine**
The Economist recently reported that Ukraine is winning the economic war against Russia for the first time since the full-scale invasion began. To sustain and accelerate this momentum, strategic investments, particularly in education, are crucial. Investments in education have a multiplier effect, acting as a key driver of long-term economic growth.
**International Support is Vital**
International support for Ukraine’s education sector is vital not just for recovery but for the social capital necessary for enduring progress. The country has received significant funding and support from organizations such as UNICEF, UNESCO, the World Bank, and the Global Partnership for Education (GPE).
**Concrete Initiatives with Tangible Results**
For the past year and a half, I’ve worked at Ukraine’s Ministry of Education and Science, promoting what I call “educational diplomacy” — advocating for Ukraine’s needs on global platforms and mobilizing resources. Today, 35 countries and more than 80 international organizations are helping support Ukrainian education.
**Tangible Results**
This international collaboration is delivering tangible results that extend beyond financial contributions, translating into concrete initiatives that impact students and teachers, laying a strong foundation for Ukraine’s recovery and future development. The Device Coalition and international partners have provided over 247,990 devices since 2022, particularly to students in front-line and border areas.
**Safe In-Person Learning**
Safe in-person learning also depends on the availability of shelters. In response, the Ukrainian government allocated $178 million for the construction of underground schools in 2024, with $147 million more planned for 2025.
**Looking Ahead**
Ukraine is aligning its education system with European Union standards and investing in its human capital. For instance, UNICEF is supporting reforms in preschool and inclusive education, while the World Bank has provided unprecedented financial backing for general secondary education.
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