A report on reconstruction, resilience and the power of education

In two Ukrainian regions – despite bombardments, power cuts and destroyed premises – teaching continues. The ‘Education for Life Ukraine Fund’ reports on how the donations have been used and why the programme is continuing.

New premises, new opportunities

The original classrooms were so badly damaged by the war that a complete renovation would have been necessary – something that was financially unfeasible. Instead, the building provided a less damaged alternative space. The team waited patiently for the windows to be repaired before the actual work could begin.

After moving in, the room was refurbished step by step: window reveals were repaired, cracks in the walls were patched up, and the walls were freshly painted. New chairs for theory and practical sessions were purchased, and the washroom was refurbished. Natasha Balabanova personally donated a cupboard for the training materials.

Lessons under air raid alerts

The three-month training course took place under extraordinary conditions: cold rooms, recurring power cuts, air raids – and yet the students and teachers only interrupted their work for the bare essentials. As soon as the all-clear was given, lessons continued.

Even the winter period, marked by heating failures and darkness, did not bring the programme to a standstill. Since the end of March 2026, lessons have been running regularly again – scheduled to continue until June, before a new group is admitted in August/September.

Odessa carries on

Even in the Odessa region, where the bombardments are particularly intense, the programme is gradually resuming its activities. Iryna, the local coordinator, has already begun putting together a new group of students – a sign of remarkable determination under the most difficult conditions.

What this project is built on

The donations received have been used in full and transparently for renovations, equipment and ongoing training costs. Any remaining funds are being set aside for the next course module.

“You – our sponsors – and we, the teaching staff: together we are achieving something truly meaningful. And the story continues.”

Natasha Balabanova & Iryna

Education for Life Ukraine