Hope Amidst Adversity for Zaporizhzhia Students

In an inspiring visit on November 13, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with students at a specialized school located within a shelter in Zaporizhzhia. Amidst the ongoing challenges in the region, this school serves as a beacon of normalcy and resilience, providing education and safety to local children.

During his visit, President Zelenskyy engaged with the students, discussing their academic interests, safety concerns, and aspirations. He also participated in their creative learning activities and tactical medicine classes, highlighting the comprehensive education being provided under extraordinary circumstances. The school, which typically educates 500 students, has adapted to accommodate an additional 500 from another institution, operating in two shifts to ensure all children have access to education.

The school is well-equipped with modern educational tools including desks, multimedia boards, and various gadgets, alongside essential facilities like a medical room and a sports area. This setup not only ensures educational continuity but also prioritizes the well-being and safety of the students.

Ivan Fedorov, Head of the Zaporizhzhia Regional Military Administration, informed the President that the region now operates 13 such shelter-based schools, with plans to establish 11 more by year-end. Additionally, a significant school nutrition reform led by Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska is underway, benefiting 23,000 students across the region with hot meals, and future plans include further expansion of these facilities.

This visit underscores the government’s commitment to education and the well-being of its young citizens in tumultuous times, providing a poignant reminder of the resilience and perseverance of the Ukrainian spirit.