Educational Shift in Ukraine: Defence Course for High School Students

In Ukraine, a significant educational shift is taking place as over 280,000 high school students—approximately 65% of those in grades 10 and 11—are currently enrolled in the revamped Defence of Ukraine course, which is being taught at newly created training centres. This initiative is set to become mandatory for high schoolers by 2027. Source: Oksen Lisovyi, Minister of Education and Science in Ukraine, stated that almost a year after introducing the model curriculum, Ukraine has successfully set up and equipped close to 1,000 training centres, with approximately 4,000 teachers providing instruction. Analysis: Lisovyi noted the importance of this program beyond mere education: “Knowledge of security, self-defence, medicine and media landscape is no longer ‘extra training’ – it is a core skill of the modern individual. For a sense of personal dignity and a courageous outlook on one’s future in one’s own country.” Background: The Ministry of Education and Science has recently approved an updated list of necessary teaching tools for the Defence of Ukraine subject. This list now includes advanced equipment such as: FPV drone operation simulators incorporating computers. Interactive laser-based shooting trainers for practical learning. </