“School of Superheroes”: education for children undergoing long-term treatment due to complex diseases
In the conditions of war, Ukrainian children face many challenges: evacuation, loss of homes, transition to distance education, and for those with serious health problems, long-term treatment in hospitals. For them, education becomes not only a source of knowledge, but also a tool of psychological support that helps them stay in touch with the world and feel part of society. Providing such an opportunity in difficult conditions is a challenge to which Ukraine has found an answer through the creation of a unique initiative “School of Superheroes”.
Studying at the “School of Superheroes”
This year, more than 10,000 Ukrainian children undergoing long-term treatment for complex diseases were able to continue their studies at the “School of Superheroes”. This unique project was created within the framework of the barrier-free space creation strategy initiated by Olena Zelenska. It became part of the flagship program “Education for All”, and it is implemented by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine reported Minister of Education Oksen Lisovyi during an extended meeting of the Barrier-free Council.
According to the minister, 17 centers in children’s hospitals across Ukraine are operating within the project. These schools have become a real salvation for children who are in hospital treatment and could lose access to education. In such conditions, education not only provides an opportunity to acquire knowledge, but also provides psychological support to children, helping them to remain a part of social life.
Oksen Lisovyi emphasized that the goal of the project is to expand the “Superhero Schools” network to cover an even greater number of medical institutions where children need educational support.
“School of Superheroes” is not only a place for learning. It is a space that empowers children to remain a part of the educational process, even as they face the most difficult challenges of their lives. The challenge for the future is to expand this program to cover even more medical facilities.” – said the minister.
A unique network of educational spaces allows you to continue your studies even in the most difficult circumstances. This is especially true during times of war, when educational opportunities are severely limited and children need support more than ever. For a child in long-term treatment, the opportunity to study is not just about supporting their academic development. It is psychological and emotional support that helps to cope with stress and feel connected to the outside world. This is especially important in times of war, when access to traditional education is much more difficult.
Education at the “School of Superheroes” is organized in such a way as to take into account the individual needs of each child. Teachers work with small patients directly in hospitals, using interactive methods that make lessons interesting and effective even in difficult conditions.
Educational platforms for children from frontline regions
In addition to the “School of Superheroes”, the “All-Ukrainian Online School” platform operates in Ukraine, which also plays an important role in ensuring continuous education. According to the Minister of Education, this platform was created for children who cannot attend school because of the war, in particular for those who live in the frontline regions.
“This platform provides access to 5,000 lessons and 100 educational courses covering the entire school curriculum. It is free for both students and teachers, ensuring continuous access to knowledge.” Lisovyi noted.
This is especially true for children who have lost the opportunity to attend traditional schools due to the displacement or destruction of educational institutions. Online education becomes not only a temporary solution, but also an effective tool for preserving the educational process.
Plans for the future
The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine continues to work on the expansion of the “School of Superheroes” program. The task is to cover as many children’s hospitals as possible, so that every child, regardless of the state of health or location, has access to quality education. The expansion of this initiative is important not only for the current academic year, but also for the future of the country. The education of children undergoing treatment today will help them feel needed by society and prepare them for a fulfilling life after recovery.
Ensuring access to education for children in medical institutions is not only a matter of humanity, but also an investment in the future. Ukrainian children are the ones who will rebuild the country after the war, and the state does everything possible to ensure that they do not lose their chances even in the most difficult times.
