The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to disrupt the education system in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, forcing schools to adapt to a changing environment. As safety concerns escalate, some educational institutions have adopted remote learning, while others attempt a return to hybrid or in-person formats. Among the innovative solutions emerging is the construction of underground schools designed to provide a secure learning environment for children amidst the ongoing war.
As of March 22, 2025, six underground schools have opened in Zaporizhzhia, allowing children to attend classes offline under safer conditions. Lyudmyla Buharina, the Director of the Department of Education and Science of the Zaporizhzhia Regional State Administration, elaborated on the efforts to ensure safe learning amidst the turmoil in an interview with the media outlet NUS.
Under the comprehensive state program, “Safe School Offline,” officials in Zaporizhzhia Oblast aim to return as many students as possible to in-person learning, primarily utilizing mixed formats. Buharina stated, “Our task, despite the proximity to the frontline, is to bring as many children as possible who are physically located in the controlled territory of Zaporizhzhia to in-person education.” Currently, approximately 100,000 children live in the area, including around 70,000 of school age.
Despite this, the educational landscape remains challenging. Out of 318 schools providing educational services in the region, 180 continue to operate remotely. The war has left many children in a state of “virtual existence,” as their schools are located in temporarily occupied territories, making in-person education difficult. Nevertheless, online education enables schools to provide services to various children, with about 20% located in the combat zone, about 18% in occupied territories, and around 7% spread across different parts of Ukraine.
Reports indicate that approximately 112,000 school-age children are registered in the region, reflecting a 34% drop compared to pre-war conditions. Nonetheless, significant numbers—around 60,000 to 70,000—remain in areas under the control of Ukrainian authorities. Officials continue to make extensive efforts to facilitate a return to offline or hybrid learning, repairing shelters, and constructing new underground facilities.
The Kolegium “Elint” in Zaporizhzhia recently celebrated the opening of its sixth underground school. Built in merely seven months, this facility is designed to accommodate 854 students, with 154 enrolled remotely from the combat zone and the remainder attending onsite in Zaporizhzhia. Buharina praised the project as part of the broader initiative to promote a robust educational experience for all children in the region.
Funding for the underground schools comes from various sources, including state budgets and local resources. “The underground space for Kolegium 'Elint' was built with the help of state funding and local budgets,” noted Buharina. “Among the 11 projects earmarked for 2024, some receive support from the regional budget, while others are partially funded through community resources. For example, a significant portion of funding for one project comes from international contributions from Lithuania, contributing to a sustainable educational future.”
Looking ahead, the plans for 2025 include the construction of 12 additional educational facilities, with 9 already in progress. Local officials maintain regular meetings to oversee the construction and ensure that all safety standards are met. “Participants in these meetings include the regional and city departments, responsible officials, contractors, and school directors, ensuring that everyone involved has the opportunity to voice concerns and suggestions,” explained Buharina. This collaborative approach is essential as officials strive to respond to the unique needs presented by the ongoing conflict.
Lyudmyla Buharina also reflects on the deeper implications of the situation, highlighting the evolving narrative surrounding education during wartime. “Our stance is shifting from simply ‘surviving’ to embracing the paradigm of ‘resilience,’ aiming to develop educational strategies despite the war’s challenges. For us, these challenges represent not only problems to address but also new opportunities to establish a vibrant educational framework for our children.”
The Zaporizhzhia Oblast's commitment to maintaining educational services amid a tumultuous backdrop underscores the importance of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. As communities continue to work together to secure a safe and conducive learning environment, it emphasizes the priority of ensuring every child’s right to education, irrespective of the challenges posed. With innovative solutions like underground schools, the hope remains that children in Zaporizhzhia can continue their education safely and effectively, ensuring their future amidst the uncertainties of war.
