Exhibit Highlights War’s Impact on Education

An evocative exhibition titled “One Desk. Two Marks,” dedicated to showcasing the stark realities of education in war-torn Ukraine, has officially opened at the Council of Europe. The exhibit, part of a global communication campaign, poignantly illustrates the dual nature of a school desk: one half marred by the scars of war, the other half pristine, representing education in peace.

The installation, presented by the Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen Global Platform in partnership with UNICEF, was first unveiled during their fifth summit in September 2025. The display is not just an art piece but a profound statement on the ongoing Russian aggression’s impact on Ukrainian children’s schooling. This winter, frequent strikes on Ukraine’s infrastructure have exacerbated conditions, leaving many without basic utilities and over 3,500 educational facilities damaged or destroyed.

First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, emphasized the resilience of millions of Ukrainian children who continue their education under severe adversities, during her online address at the exhibition’s inauguration. The exhibition, which runs until January 30, serves as a powerful reminder of the destructive consequences of war on education and the indomitable spirit of those fighting for their right to learn.