More than half of Ukraine's 7.5 million children are missing out on an education. Schools have been destroyed, many are close to the fighting, while others don't have adequate bomb shelters for safety. In addition, children and teachers struggle with online learning due to prolonged power cuts caused by attacks on the energy grid. This project aims to provide informal learning opportunities and psychological support by providing safe learning spaces for children to socialise, play and connect.
The war is depriving children of life's essentials. Schools cannot protect them from strikes, and in many regions, frontline fighting is a massive threat. Online study is impossible for many children as power outages, internet disruption, and lack of access restrict learning opportunities. Some families cannot afford computers or devices and lack the space to create a sound learning environment. Children forcibly displaced or living in contact zones are more likely to be denied education.
The project aims to provide informal education and psychological support to children in Kharkiv. As one of the most heavily targeted regions, children urgently require spaces to feel safe and supported, socialise with peers, and learn and receive psychological help. The programme, led by qualified educators and psychologists, caters to various age groups and includes play, learning activities, and psychological well-being for trauma-affected children.
Armed conflict has devastating long-term effects on a child's psyche. Ukrainian children face daily uncertainty, fear, and deprivation provoked by the war. Providing a safe space, a supportive environment and learning opportunities is vital for these children with no other education options. This project provides an environment for children to come together, play and just be kids. Providing such opportunities supports fundamental human rights and helps children survive the war.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
