**Ukraine to Build 150 Underground Schools**
The Ukrainian government plans to open over 150 underground educational facilities by September 2025. This was announced by Deputy Education Minister Nadiia Kuzmychova at a briefing on December 27.
The underground schools are being built as a response to Russian aerial attacks, which regularly target civilian infrastructure, including education facilities. Ukraine has already started building 139 underground schools and several dozen vocational education institutions.
There are currently 79 underground education facilities under construction in front-line regions and areas most affected by Russian shelling. Kuzmychova said that the construction of all facilities is expected to be completed by September 1, 2025.
**Protecting Students from Shelling**
Kharkiv was the first Ukrainian city to open schools underground to protect students from shelling and aerial attacks. The city operates schools in its metro stations, allowing students to continue their education while staying safe.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has had a devastating impact on the country’s education system. Over 400 educational institutions have been completely destroyed, and one in every seven Ukrainian schools has been damaged.
**Recent Attacks on Education Facilities**
In September 2024, Russian strikes damaged at least 12 education facilities in just three days, leading to dozens of casualties. This highlights the need for underground schools and other safe learning environments.
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