Ukraine's almost 4.3 million pupils heard the first bell ringing for them on Sept. 1.
Ukraine’s almost 4.3 million pupils heard the first bell ringing for them on Sept. 1, the day schools and universities resume their work. There are more than 20,000 state schools in Ukraine, and education is free for all, according to the Constitution. In reality, the government poorly funds education. Many schools request financial and other assistance from parents for classroom upgrades, buying new equipment and other needs, such as textbooks. Teachers’ salaries, on average, are Hr 1,970 monthly – about $250.
Education Minister Ivan Vakarchuk thanked 486,000 Ukrainian teachers for their devotion in his Sept. 1 address, and welcomed students to the classrooms. “You are the main players in education. I believe on this path you will open up your talents and make your dreams come true. Let your hearts always be filled with love to our country, and the youthful flame and energy be directed towards building your own future and the future of the Ukrainian state.” About 388,000 first-year pupils were enrolled in the nation’s schools this year. In the photo above, taken at the one-year-old school No. 107 in Kyiv’s Podil area, first-year pupils at the first lesson are taught to raise their hands before asking the teacher a question or giving an answer. Below left, a boy gestures to his parents during the first bell ceremony. President Victor Yushchenko was invited, but sent his greetings through a telegram. Most children spend 12 years in the primary and secondary school classrooms.
