Preparing children for war from school: The Verkhovna Rada has reinstated basic military training for all students in schools

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has reinstated Soviet-era basic military training in schools. Bill No. 11092 was passed in the second reading with 297 votes in favor.

Roman Hryshchuk, head of the subcommittee on extracurricular education of the Rada Committee, stated that the subject “Defense of Ukraine” will be studied by all students, just like mathematics or the Ukrainian language.

“The law introduces the concept of ‘basic military training,’ which will allow the government to make the study of this subject mandatory. More emphasis is placed on technology and the internal motivation of citizens to defend their country,” Hryshchuk added.

On April 23, the Verkhovna Rada voted in the first reading on the draft law concerning the initial military training of students for armed defense.

Previously, the Ministry of Education reported that Ukrainian students would be taught first aid, mine safety, drone operation, and land navigation. The subject was updated to ensure that children acquire “vital skills.”