The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has initiated an open dialogue regarding the modernization of physical education. This event was organized in collaboration with the Small Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, JuniorS, UNIT.City, and the NGO "Education 360" as part of the "Education for Life" policy, which supports the New Ukrainian School reform. The Ministry has gathered leading experts to discuss new concepts in physical education.
The opening remarks were made by Nadia Kuzmychova, Deputy Minister, who emphasized the importance of adapting physical education to contemporary challenges such as war and the pandemic. She noted that the outcomes of the meeting will be reflected in new educational concepts planned for publication in 2025. Pilot programs for the updated curriculum will commence in the fall of 2025 for fifth grades across three educational fields: arts, technology, and natural sciences.
The program included two panel discussions. The first, focused on “The Goals of Physical Education”, was moderated by Oleksandr Pedan, who also facilitated a Q&A session with teachers featuring Nadia Kuzmychova and Serhii Tymofiev.
“Physical education in schools is not just a class; it is the foundation of a healthy future. It should be about engaging every student in movement. While not everyone can meet certain standards, education must consider individuality, highlighting each child's strengths, which aligns with the spirit of the New Ukrainian School reform,” stated Nadia Kuzmychova.
The second panel discussion centered on “The Graduate Profile: How Should Physical Education Prepare Children for Life in a Changing World?”. Participants included:
- Kostiantyn Yevtushenko — Managing Partner at Unit.city;
- Oleksandr Sekirin — Founder of the "All Stars" Dance School;
- Maria Pavlychuk — Co-founder of the NGO "JuniorS".
Experts stressed the necessity of a practical approach to physical education so that students acquire knowledge on how to remain active in today's world, develop lifelong healthy habits, and find activities or sports that inspire them.
After the discussions, participants formed groups to work on specific solutions regarding the improvement of physical education and shared their professional experiences.
The physical education initiative is part of a broader consultation process involving surveys of educators, parents, and students. The Ministry plans to hold more such meetings, which can be joined through the website educationforlife.mon.gov.ua in the section “Who is it for?”.
