Ukraine’s Children Face Fourth School Year of War Disruption

Children in a classroom study at the computer at the new Digital Learning Center, created by UNICEF and partners.

This year alone, 4.6 million children in Ukraine are struggling to access education as they enter a fourth academic year under full-scale war.

Since Russian forces invaded Ukraine in 2022, children have continued to bear the brunt of the crisis — unable to attend school regularly, learn safely, or experience a sense of normalcy.

Air raid alarms frequently disrupt classes. Many schools, particularly in frontline areas, remain closed due to ongoing hostilities or a lack of adequate shelters, forcing almost one million children to study online, according to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

In 2025 alone, more than 340 educational facilities have been damaged or destroyed, further worsening children’s lives and their right to education. Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the UN has verified that around 2,800 schools have been damaged, though the actual number is likely much higher.

“Schools must be protected spaces where children can learn safely, even during war. In times of crisis, education provides a lifeline and a sense of normalcy to children,” said Munir Mammadzade, UNICEF Representative in Ukraine.

A critical lifeline

“Despite the challenges, children in Ukraine are determined to continue learning — whether in school or online, in classrooms or in shelters. They remain hopeful for a future where they can achieve their dreams,” he added.

UNICEF’s response, alongside government and local partners, has enabled more than half a million children to access inclusive formal or non-formal education, including safe in-person learning and remedial programmes to help them catch up on lost learning.

As Ukraine enters another winter of war, UNICEF continues to provide vital cash assistance to help families prepare for the cold months. In October alone, 22,557 households received winter assistance. So far in the 2024–2025 winter season, UNICEF has supported 43,337 households — reaching 140,234 people, including 63,416 children, of whom 30,738 are girls.

Protecting schools and children’s right to education is not optional during war — it is essential, UNICEF stressed, urging international partners to continue supporting Ukraine’s education sector as a “non-negotiable investment” in children and the country’s future.