The inspection of the Chernihiv Military Lyceum shocked: children live in dangerous and unacceptable conditions

Teaching children in comfortable and safe conditions is the basis for their development and success. This is especially relevant in the conditions of war, when many children face constant stress and trials. Providing an appropriate environment for learning is not just a formality, but a vital necessity that affects their physical and psychological safety, as well as the formation of trust in society and the state. For this reason, any violations in educational institutions are unacceptable and require immediate response.
A recent inspection by representatives of the VRU Commissioner for Human Rights in the Chernihiv region of a lyceum with enhanced military and physical training discovered a number of serious shortcomings that call into question the institution’s compliance with quality standards. In the Chernihiv Lyceum, where 305 students study, of which 209 live permanently on the territory, expired medicines, faulty toilets, outdated furniture, overcrowded rooms, as well as non-compliance of firefighting equipment with modern standards were discovered.
The inspection also found that dormitory rooms are overcrowded: instead of the recommended four children, nine or more are living in a room. The beds are close to each other, which violates basic sanitary standards. The lack of furniture, such as chairs and bedside tables for personal belongings, adds to the discomfort, and the lack of handles on the windows makes it difficult to ventilate the rooms.
Photo: Facebook/Representation of the VRU Commissioner for Human Rights in Chernihiv Oblast
A separate problem is the state of sanitary and hygienic conditions. In some restrooms, the doors do not close, some toilets are defective, and the isolation ward for sick girls does not have a separate sanitary room. This forces girls to use communal toilets, which is an unacceptable violation. In addition, refrigerators for products do not meet the requirements for food storage: products are stored without taking into account the product neighborhood. Expired medicines were found in the medical part of the institution, which may pose a threat to children’s health.
Photo: Facebook/Representation of the VRU Commissioner for Human Rights in Chernihiv Oblast
No less alarming is the state of shelters in the institution, which should be a safe place for students in case of danger. During the inspection, it was established that there is a lack of long-term storage products and drinking water in the shelters. The military lyceum also lacks a fire shield, and the existing fire equipment does not meet the established standards, which endangers the lives and safety of students.
Such situations are unacceptable, because providing a safe and comfortable environment for children is not only a legal norm, but also a moral obligation of society. Especially in wartime, when children need extra support and care, any negligence in this area can have serious consequences. The authorities and management of the institution should take decisive measures to correct the situation, and the society should monitor so that such violations do not recur.