The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has announced its intention to downsize 10 more higher education institutions in 2025. The announcement was made by Deputy Minister Mykhailo Vynnytskyi, who stressed that this process is part of a broader strategy to consolidate the university network, which should continue over the next 3–5 years. According to the plans, by 2030, Ukraine will have about 100 universities.
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Vynnytskyi explained that the reorganisation involves the merger of less popular or small institutions with larger ones. This allows to preserve scientific schools, teaching staff and provide students with quality learning conditions. He stressed that decisions on mergers are made individually for each university, taking into account the demographic situation in the regions.
The Deputy Minister also noted that the purpose of the changes is not to save money, but to create a high-quality educational environment where students and teachers can develop. However, he did not specify which of the 10 universities will be reorganised this year.
The consolidation process will affect both displaced and frontline universities. Although they are still being given the opportunity to adapt, the war is impacting their identity, financial stability and academic performance. Therefore, over time, these institutions may also be included in the reorganisation process.
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