Ukraine: Commission supports Member States to include refugee children in their education systems for the next school year

Today, the Commission publishes a practical manual to help Ukrainian children and young people to continue their education in the EU, from early childhood education and care to upper secondary education (0-18 years). The document gathers essential education principles and practices for supporting the inclusion of displaced children from Ukraine in education. It is addressed to all relevant parties, including teachers and national authorities. The concrete insights build on the lessons Member States have collectively learnt since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine started on 24 February. On occasion of the publication, Vice-President for Promoting our European Way of Life, Margaritis Schinas, said: “Welcoming so many Ukrainian refugees into European schools and universities is a tremendous opportunity to prepare Ukraine’s youth on their European path. Ukraine can count on the EU to support and protect their children, so that they can rebuild their country. Our solidarity is a pillar of our partnership – present and future.” Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Mariya Gabriel, said: “As this school year ends, we can confidently say that we are ready for the autumn. We have been helping educators to provide education under the best possible conditions. And we have ensured that our schools will remain a safe haven for all pupils, whether they are refugees or EU nationals.” Today’s Staff Working Document was prepared in consultation with UNHCR and UNICEF, representatives of ministries of education, partner organisations that met in peer learning events between March and June 2022, and with experts from the Network working on the social dimension of education and training (NESET). More information is available here and on the School Education Gateway.