What will a new school year be like for kids in Ukraine and around the world?

While the new school year begins for many today, inequalities in access to education are keeping approximately 244-million children out of school this year, according to the UN Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization. The situation is especially tenuous in Ukraine as war continues. 

“Children are returning to schools — many of which have been damaged during the war — with stories of destruction, uncertain if their teachers and friends will be there to welcome them,” Catherine Russell, executive director, UN Children’s Fund, was quoted as saying by UN News. She adds: “Many parents are hesitating to send their children to school, not knowing if they will be safe.”

Some schools destroyed early in the war were repaired, but there’s less room for students since bomb shelters are now taking up space.

What’s more, approximately 650,000 Ukrainian children have become refugees in 12 host countries and will need to register in national education systems. UNICEF, governments and peer agencies are helping, children enrol in physical or online classrooms.

At Children Believe, we’re providing support through our friends at ChildFund Germany. For example, thanks to generous donors and local partners, children in Ukraine enjoyed summer camp and continue to receive psychosocial aid and education support.

You can help keep children affected by the war in Ukraine today.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.

About Childfund Alliance:

A member of ChildFund Alliance, Children Believe is part of a global network of child-focused development organizations working to create opportunities for children and youth, their families and communities. ChildFund helps nearly 23-million children and their families in 70 countries overcome poverty and underlying conditions that prevent children from achieving their full potential. We work to end violence against children; provide expertise in emergencies and disasters to ease the harmful impact on children and their communities; and engage children and youth to create lasting change and elevate their voices in decisions that affect their lives.