Structure of the chapter
This chapter provides a thematic and chronological overview of national reforms and policy developments since 2024. The web pages that follow group reforms in the following broad thematic areas:
- Early childhood education and care
- General school education
- Vocational education and training
- Higher education
- Adult education and training
Inside each thematic area, reforms are organised chronologically. The most recent reforms are described first.
Government’s key objectives for education
Among the key strategic documents, the Strategic Plan of Actions of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine until 2027 (‘Education of Winners’) plays a central role. The Plan builds on the Vision of the Future of Education and Science in Ukraine and aligns education reform with national development goals and European integration. It defines key reform directions and sets priorities across the education system, reflecting both national and global factors. The Plan focuses on values, inclusion, professional capacity, institutional networks, learning environments and effective governance. It outlines the following priority areas:
- Content and meaning. Education develops values, culture and competencies. It supports personal fulfilment and active citizenship.
- Learners. The system ensures inclusion, accessibility and respect. It responds to individual needs, interests and talents.
- Pedagogues and researchers. The system improves working conditions and ensures fair pay. It supports continuous professional development.
- System and network. The system develops an effective network of institutions. It reflects the needs of learners, communities and the state.
- Environment. Educational environments support development and innovation. They ensure accessibility and promote well-being.
- Management capability. The system modernises governance in education and science. It uses effective management practices and motivation systems.
Recent legislative and policy developments
On 12 September 2025, the new Law on Vocational Education and Training (закон України ‘Про професійну освіту’) entered into force. It defines the foundations of decentralisation, institutional autonomy and labour market alignment, in particular through flexible learning pathways and ensuring access to education.
On 1 January 2025, the new Law on Early Childhood Education and Care (закон України ‘Про дошкільну освіту’) entered into force. The law sets the framework for the ECEC system. In 2025, authorities focused on implementation, access, inclusion and safety. The law, in particular, defines the foundations of the functioning of the preschool system, including ensuring access, inclusion and safety. The Government approved a new State Standard for Preschool Education in late 2025, with implementation planned from September 2027.
The New Ukrainian School (Нова українська школа, НУШ) reform continues in line with its roadmap and focuses on further modernisation of general secondary education. Recent steps include preparations for specialised upper secondary education and 12-year schooling, updates to curricula and state standards, and the strengthening of the competence-based approach. Authorities expand digital learning tools, modernise education infrastructure and improve access to resources. The reform also prioritises inclusive education, safe learning environments and continuous professional development for teachers.
Ukraine continues to develop the legislative framework for adult education and training, including, among others, the Draft Law on Adult Education and Training (проєкт закону про освіту дорослих). The reform primarily aims to establish a coherent adult education system that responds to labour market needs and promotes lifelong learning.