Ukraine is grateful to Slovakia for attention to educational needs of Ukrainian children – internally displaced persons
At a meeting with the Minister of Education, Science, Research and Sport of the Slovak Republic Jan Horecky, the Deputy Speaker of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine Olena Kondratiuk discussed the issue of access to education for Ukrainian children who fled the war in this friendly country.
During russia’s full-scale invasion, Slovakia sheltered 110,000 Ukrainians, including 38,500 Ukrainian children.
“Children have the opportunity to study in Slovak schools and attend kindergartens. Recently, Slovakia has automatically extended the term and validity of temporary asylum certificates for Ukrainians for another year, until 4 March 2024. We are very grateful for this decision!” said Olena Kondratiuk.
According to the Minister of Education of Slovakia, Jan Horecky, about 15 thousand Ukrainian children are officially registered in Slovak schools. Tests have been specially developed and adapted for Ukrainian schoolchildren so that they are on an equal footing with Slovak children. Slovakia is also very concerned about the psychological health of Ukrainian children who have found refuge in the country, he stressed.
“We are grateful to Slovakia for the proper attitude to the educational needs of Ukrainian children and, in general, for the warm welcome of internally displaced persons from Ukraine, 90% of whom are women and children,” Olena Kondratiuk said during the meeting in Bratislava.
The Vice-Speaker also asked to facilitate the passing of the national multi-subject test by high school students who are currently in Slovakia and complete their studies in Ukrainian schools remotely.
“In addition, there is a need for additional kindergartens for Ukrainian children in Slovakia. Our women are able and willing to work. They want to find a job to support themselves and their children in the country. But they need wider access to kindergarten services,” Olena Kondratiuk addressed the Minister.