Education Minister Barbara Nowacka recently outlined plans to support the integration of refugee children from Ukraine into the Polish education system. In an interview with public broadcaster Polish Radio, Nowacka emphasized the importance of providing educational opportunities for Ukrainian children who have been impacted by the pandemic and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
According to Nowacka, Ukrainian children have been in online education for four years, leading to concerns about their educational development and well-being. To address these challenges, the Polish government has decided to make schooling compulsory for Ukrainian children starting in September. This decision was not without its difficulties, as estimating the number of Ukrainian children outside the education system proved to be a complex task. Various Polish organizations have estimated that anywhere from 130,000 to 180,000 Ukrainian children may be in need of educational support.
One of the key incentives for Ukrainian students to attend Polish schools regularly is the ‚800+‘ benefit, which provides financial support of PLN 800 (approximately EUR 185 or USD 200) per child per month to their parents. Previously, Ukrainian children were exempt from attending Polish educational institutions if they were engaged in remote learning in the Ukrainian education system. However, the new policy aims to ensure that Ukrainian children receive a quality education and have the opportunity to integrate into Polish society.
To facilitate the integration of Ukrainian children into the Polish education system, the government plans to provide additional support in the form of intercultural assistants and Polish-language classes. These resources will help Ukrainian students overcome communication barriers and adapt to their new learning environment. The goal is for Ukrainian children to feel welcomed, safe, and equipped to communicate effectively with their peers and teachers.
In addition to supporting Ukrainian children, the Polish education ministry is also introducing new initiatives to enhance the overall educational experience for students. One such initiative is the reintroduction of first aid classes into the curriculum after an 18-year hiatus. Collaborating with nongovernmental organizations, the ministry plans to make first aid education a mandatory subject, with the aim of equipping students with life-saving skills and knowledge.
Social campaigner Jerzy Owsiak, head of the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity, praised the decision to make first aid education mandatory, highlighting the importance of teaching students how to respond to emergencies. The classes will consist of 12 hours per year, with teachers having the flexibility to schedule them as needed. Owsiak emphasized that the scientific basis for first aid education is well-established, ensuring that students receive accurate and practical training.
Overall, the Polish government’s efforts to support Ukrainian children and enhance the educational experience for all students demonstrate a commitment to providing quality education and fostering inclusivity in the education system. By prioritizing the needs of refugee children and introducing valuable initiatives like first aid education, Poland is taking proactive steps to ensure that all students have the opportunity to thrive and succeed in their academic pursuits.