PUBLIC-PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP AS A MECHANISM FOR IMPLEMENTING THE NEW UKRAINIAN SCHOOL REFORM AND OVERCOMING EDUCATIONAL CHALLENGES IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The article examines the significant role of public-private partnerships (PPP) in advancing the implementation of the New Ukrainian School reform within the general secondary education system. It underscores the importance of leveraging both international and domestic best practices to address urgent educational challenges, which have been intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia’s full-scale military invasion. These crises have underscored the need for a comprehensive overhaul of Ukraine’s education system to modernize and restore infrastructure in war-torn and de-occupied areas.

Today’s school graduates must acquire the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to adapt to a rapidly changing world, where the ability to apply learned abilities practically is vital. To meet these evolving needs, Ukrainian schools undergo a transformative process to prepare future citizens to actively contribute to building a resilient civil society. This transformation fosters civic and social competencies based on democratic values, justice, equality, human rights, well-being, healthy lifestyles, and equal opportunities.

The article explores the active involvement of public organizations, charitable foundations, and private-sector entities as essential partners in the PPP framework, which has been instrumental in advancing the reform since 2018. It evaluates the collaboration between state authorities, local self-government bodies, non-governmental organizations, and charitable funds during various phases of the reform in general secondary education. The analysis highlights ongoing challenges, particularly the need to mobilize substantial financial, technical, and human resources to rebuild the educational environment and physical school infrastructure severely impacted by Russian aggression.

Furthermore, the article emphasizes the importance of practical cooperation between internal and external stakeholders in implementing PPP-based educational projects. It identifies key factors that strengthen the role of PPPs in addressing the multifaceted issues of the education sector, including transparency, strategic planning, resource mobilization, and innovative management approaches. Based on these insights, the article proposes targeted measures to develop a modern educational environment through robust public-private collaboration. These measures prioritize the creation of inclusive, resource-efficient, and future-oriented educational spaces that align with global standards, ensuring equitable access to quality education, particularly for students in war-affected regions.