HWPL Peace Education in Ukraine: Teaching Peace Amidst the War

HWPL Peace Education in Ukraine: Teaching Peace Amidst the War

How is peace education implemented during an ongoing war? The full-scale war in Ukraine has lasted for over four years, drastically changing the education system. Amidst air-raid alerts and power outages, the HWPL 3rd Peace Educator Training Program was successfully conducted from December 5, 2025, to March 10, 2026. A total of 237 Ukrainian educators completed the program, proving that the desire for peace cannot be stopped. Here is how HWPL peace education is transforming classrooms in Ukraine.


237 Ukrainian Educators Certified in HWPL Peace Program

HWPL Peace Education in Ukraine: Teaching Peace Amidst the War

The 3rd HWPL Peace Educator Training Program in Ukraine was operated online in collaboration with regional departments of education, primary and secondary schools, and civic organizations. Over a three-month period, 237 participating teachers learned the theoretical foundations of peace education and acquired practical tools to support children during difficult times.

“In a full-scale war situation, the educational process in Ukraine requires constant adaptation,” explained Muratova Oleksandra, vice principal of Dnipro Primary and Secondary School No. 140. Despite facing continuous challenges, teachers and students strive to maintain stability, support, and the quality of education.

Education During War: Challenges and Adaptation in Regions

1. Hybrid Learning System in Sumy

Teacher Vlasova Olena, a librarian at Konotop Higher Vocational School in the Sumy region, shared the reality of hybrid learning: “Classes were conducted remotely due to security concerns and power outages. Currently, the system is gradually transitioning to a hybrid format where students take theoretical lessons online and practical training on-site.”

2. Remote Learning Near the Front Lines in Kharkiv

In the Kharkiv region, the situation is even more critical. Teacher Holtviannichenko Oksana, from Artilske Primary, Secondary, and High School, stated: “From the very first day of the full-scale invasion, our school has operated through remote learning, as our region is located close to the front lines.” Despite the danger, she meets the children whenever possible to give them the joy of peer communication.


Why Ukrainian Teachers Choose HWPL Peace Education

Although the educators came from diverse backgrounds, they shared a common goal: to help children live through war without losing their sense of humanity. Vice Principal Oleksandra explained, “I wanted to gain a deeper understanding of how to foster a culture of peace among students in a wartime situation and equip myself with practical tools to address the emotions of the children.”

Teacher Olena emphasized the importance of spreading the values of peace and mutual understanding in modern society through continuous communication with university students.

Teacher Oksana shared a heartbreaking motivation: “Through this training, I wanted to help our children (ages 6–7) understand what peace is, because they have not experienced a single peaceful day since their memories began.”


Rethinking the Role of Teachers: Inner Transformation

This training went beyond professional development; it became an opportunity for inner transformation. Vice Principal Oleksandra stated, “After the training, I began to pay more attention to the emotional well-being of my students.” She now sees herself as a mentor and supporter for her students during difficult times.

Teacher Olena also experienced this change: “Today, the role of a teacher or librarian is not simply to deliver knowledge. Above all, it is to create a safe space where students can feel at ease.” She views her work as a calling to help young people build an inner foundation for peace.

How Peace Education is Implemented in Classrooms

At Dnipro School No. 140, Vice Principal Oleksandra and seven fellow certified HWPL peace teachers conducted classes for 169 elementary and middle school students using interactive activities and role-playing. “Students respond very actively. It is impressive to see moments when they open up and support one another,” she said.

At Konotop Higher Vocational School, Teacher Olena conducted HWPL peace classes for 25 college students. Focused on dialogue, she observed meaningful changes: students listened more attentively, expressed gratitude more often, and experienced fewer conflicts.

Peace Education as a Shield and Future Investment

In wartime, peace education serves as vital psychological support. Vice Principal Oleksandra noted that it reduces anxiety and contributes to emotional stability. Teacher Olena added, “Peace education is not just a subject—it is a life-protecting shield that safeguards the souls of children, helping them maintain inner balance without aggression.”

Peace education in Ukraine is a critical investment for post-war recovery. Teacher Olena shared her plan to establish a “peace hub” within the library to support university students. Ukraine needs conscious “citizens of peace” who can cooperate and build sincere relationships.

"After the war, these very children will become the foundation for rebuilding the nation," emphasized Vice Principal Oleksandra. Ukrainian educators spoke with one voice, calling on international colleagues to actively participate in HWPL peace education projects to build a future based on mutual understanding rather than conflict.

The dedication of Ukrainian teachers proves that even the darkness of war cannot stop the light of peace. Let us stand together with HWPL and Ukrainian educators to support the sustainable future of these children.

HWPL official website

👉 Event Homepage