Revamping Physical Education: New Approaches in Ukraine
The Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine has initiated an open dialogue among experts to enhance physical education. This event was organized in collaboration with the Small Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, JuniorS, UNIT.City, and the NGO "Education 360" under the "Education for Life" policy, which supports the New Ukrainian School reform. Specialists gathered to discuss innovative teaching methods for physical education.
The session was opened by Nadya Kuzmychova, Deputy Minister of Education, who emphasized the need to adapt physical education to the new realities of war and pandemic. She noted that the outcomes of the meeting would be incorporated into the concepts of the educational sector "Physical Culture," scheduled for publication in spring 2025. Pilot implementation of the updated curriculum will begin in the fall of 2025 in fifth grades across three fields: arts, technology, and natural sciences. Additionally, the policy will refresh workshops and laboratories for basic education.
The program included two panel discussions. The first, on the topic “The Goals of Physical Culture”, was moderated by Oleksandr Pedan, who held a Q&A session involving Nadya Kuzmychova and Serhii Tymofiev, Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports.
“Physical culture in educational institutions is not just a lesson but a foundation for a healthy future. It should be about accessibility, not just in numbers, but in inspiring every student to embrace movement. While not all students may meet standards due to individual characteristics, education must consider these aspects, revealing each child's strengths, which aligns with the spirit of the New Ukrainian School reform. When we talk about physical culture, we talk about shaping individuals who value their health and understand their bodies,” noted Nadya Kuzmychova.
The second panel discussion focused on “The Graduate Portrait: 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 Pavlichuk — co-founder of NGO "JuniorS".
Experts emphasized the importance of a practical approach to physical education, equipping students with knowledge on staying active in today’s world, forming lifelong healthy habits, and discovering activities that inspire them.
After the panel discussions, participants formed groups to work on concrete solutions for updating physical education and sharing their professional experiences.
The physical education educational circle is part of a broader consultation process, which includes surveys of educators, parents, and students. The Ministry of Education plans to hold additional meetings across various educational sectors, which can be joined through the website educationforlife.mon.gov.ua in the “Who Is It For?” section.