Daria’s memories of pre-war school days in Ukraine are hazy, overshadowed by the conflict that has persisted for over three years now. However, a glimmer of normalcy has returned as she and other students in Mykolaiv have resumed classes in a school equipped with a refurbished shelter, offering a safe haven from potential Kremlin attacks. The 16-year-old, now in eleventh grade, reflects on a life divided into ‘before’ and ‘after,’ devoid of joyful school memories due to the ongoing war.
Transitioning from challenging online learning, Daria expresses her eagerness to interact with classmates in person. Mykolaiv Lyceum No.53, accommodating children aged six to 17, has reopened with the support of UNICEF funding, providing a secure environment for over 400 students and teachers within its renovated 320 square-meter shelter.
In contrast to schools in peaceful regions like Britain, Ukrainian schools like Lyceum No.53 have adapted to accommodate the conflict, operating in shifts to ensure safety amid the turmoil. Despite the challenges, students like fifth-grader Roman eagerly embrace the return to school, cherishing the opportunity to reunite with friends and make new connections.
For families like Natalia Zolotova’s, whose daughter Zlata embarks on her educational journey at the same school as her ancestors, the reopening of Lyceum No.53 signifies a return to a cherished family tradition. The school, which faced closures due to the pandemic and subsequent invasion, now stands fortified with upgraded facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of its students.
As Ukraine continues to navigate the realities of war, schools like Lyceum No.53 play a crucial role in providing a sense of normalcy and continuity for children amidst the conflict. UNICEF’s efforts, in collaboration with local authorities, aim to create a conducive learning environment where children can thrive despite the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.