Exams in the trenches: young servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine can receive education during their service

The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has approved Bill No. 13235 as the basis, which opens up new opportunities for young people undergoing military service. This document aims to ensure the right to education for service members aged 18 to 24 who have been mobilized or accepted for contract service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

According to the new changes, service members will be able to receive education in higher educational institutions and colleges without having to leave their service. Education can be conducted remotely, and during exams or intensive training blocks, they will be granted short-term vacations.

As noted by People’s Deputy Yaroslav Zheleznyak, the adoption of this law preserves the status of a student, a place in an educational institution, and the right to a scholarship for those studying in the military. This step is aimed not only at supporting the army but also at creating additional motivation for serving.

The Verkhovna Rada emphasized that the law will also help young defenders gain equal access to education, which will contribute to their social adaptation and professional fulfillment after military service.

Additionally, the Ministry of Defense emphasized that participation in the educational process should not interfere with a service member’s performance of duties. Until now, only specific categories of military personnel, such as privates, sergeants, and contract service foremen, as well as officers who received higher education under a state order, have had the opportunity to study during their service. The new bill aims to expand these opportunities for a larger number of young service members.