Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine invites educators, schools, and youth programs worldwide to join the initiative and use the unique lesson “Snapshots from Ukraine: Untold Stories of Teenagers”.

Developed by Ukrainian teachers, education experts, and the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, this lesson was first presented at the 5th Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen.

It gives students around the world a chance to hear directly from Ukrainian teenagers who have spent 12 years growing up under the shadow of war — sharing their challenges, hopes, and dreams for the future. The lesson is built around three powerful true stories of Ukrainian youth: studying near the frontline in an underground school, the forcible deportation of teenagers by Russia, and the loss of friend to Russian shelling.

At its heart, this lesson is a story of resilience, humanity, and values that endure even in times of war. It reminds young people that peace is a value that must be protected and never taken for granted.

“The Peace Lesson we created for the Summit is not just another class on the timetable. It’s a reminder that peace starts in each person’s heart, with their everyday actions. We teach children not only to live without war, but also to respect one another and understand different cultures. We invite teachers around the world to show their students that the future depends above all on the next generation’s ability to build bridges instead of walls,” said Olena Zelenska, First Lady of Ukraine. 

“Nurturing humanity, empathy, and cooperation begins at school — just like fostering national identity and patriotism, which are the foundations of a resilient society. It is here that a generation is formed, capable of creating peace and defending human values. I call on ministries of education in other countries and teachers worldwide to join this initiative and deliver this important lesson, which will teach children compassion, understanding, and respect — and counter disinformation,” adds Oksen Lisovyi, Minister of Education and Science of Ukraine

Who Can Join

Educators in any country can use the lesson in their classrooms, youth centers, or cultural programs. The lesson is open to teachers of history, geography, languages, philosophy, and ethics; mentors, tutors, and homeroom teachers; and Ukrainian students temporarily studying abroad.

Who It’s For

The materials are designed for students aged 14–18 who want to learn more about Ukraine, the war and its causes, and the everyday lives of their peers living through these times.

All lesson materials are freely available in several languages here: Lesson “Snapshots from Ukraine: Untold Stories of Teenagers”

We would be very grateful if you could share or cover this initiative. We are open to collaboration in various formats — including comments or interviews with Ukrainian education leaders on this and other education-related topics.