Order of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine № 274 “On сertain issues of organizing general secondary education and the educational process under martial law in Ukraine”

Order № 274 by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine outlines provisions for organizing general secondary education during martial law, declared in Ukraine following the large-scale military invasion by the Russian Federation in 2022. The purpose of this order is to ensure access to education, safety, and protection for both education workers and students under crisis conditions.

The order regulates several key aspects of education in wartime. First, it sets out procedures for enrolling students who were forced to change their place of study or residence, both within Ukraine and abroad. All necessary documents can be submitted in a manner convenient for the applicant, simplifying the enrollment process for refugees. Additionally, the order allows educational institutions to organize learning in secure formats, such as distance learning, to adapt to current challenges.

A crucial component is the provision for salary payments to education staff, regardless of their current location. In cases where an educational institution cannot operate due to military activities, it is permitted to declare downtime, which allows staff to retain their positions and receive wages. The order also provides the possibility of employment in other institutions if vacancies are available.

Furthermore, the order mandates keeping separate registries for students, especially those with special educational needs, to ensure a personalized approach to their learning. Special attention is given to documenting educational achievements, enabling individuals to obtain information on certificates issued in Ukraine, even if the documents are physically inaccessible.

The order came into effect upon publication and will remain active throughout the martial law period.