This year, about 252,000 first graders are expected to start school in Ukraine — 62,000 fewer than last year. The figure was announced by Serhiy Babak, head of the parliamentary committee on education. For comparison, in 2024, the number of children entering school for the first time was 314,000.
Experts link the decline primarily to low birth rates in recent years and the departure of many children abroad due to the full-scale war. According to educators, this trend could have long-term consequences for both the education system and the country’s demographic situation.
Despite the difficult circumstances, the Ministry of Education and local authorities are preparing for the new school year, emphasizing the importance of ensuring access to quality education for all children who remain in Ukraine.
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