The village of Vysoke in Zhytomyr Oblast has opened its first-ever preschool, marking a significant step toward improving early education access for local and internally displaced children. The new facility, financed by the European Investment Bank (EIB) under the Ukraine Recovery Programme, cost €812,000 to build and includes a radiation-protected shelter that serves both the preschool and the wider community during air alerts.
Constructed in just 11 months amid ongoing conflict, the preschool accommodates 40 children and is fully equipped with classrooms, play areas, and a medical room. Its inclusive design ensures barrier-free access and provides a safe and nurturing learning environment. The shelter doubles as a community facility, enhancing safety and resilience in the village.
The project is part of a broader effort under the Ukraine Recovery Programme — one of three EU-EIB initiatives implemented in partnership with Ukraine’s Ministries of Development and Finance and with technical support from the UNDP. In Zhytomyr Oblast alone, 12 such recovery projects, worth €16 million, are either completed or underway, focusing on rehabilitating schools, hospitals, and essential infrastructure.
EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska emphasized that the new preschool symbolizes investment in education, safety, and resilience for Ukrainian families. Representatives from the EU, Ukrainian government, and UNDP highlighted the initiative as a powerful example of international cooperation in rebuilding war-affected communities and restoring vital services.
Local leaders expressed that the preschool not only supports children’s education but also provides parents with the opportunity to work and rebuild their lives. The project’s completion stands as a testament to Ukraine’s determination to create secure, sustainable, and hopeful spaces for its citizens, even in the face of ongoing challenges.
