Free school meals in Ukraine: when will they be introduced and who will be eligible for free meals?

The government is expanding its large-scale social programme to support families: hot meals in schools will soon be completely free for pupils in Years 1 to 11. The state will cover all costs associated with school meals and renovate school canteens. Find out exactly when this long-awaited reform will begin

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A major reform of school meals is currently underway in Ukraine. The Cabinet of Ministers has officially announced the date on which free hot lunches will become available to absolutely all pupils — from Year 1 to Year 11.

When will free school meals begin for all year groups in Ukraine

According to a statement by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko following a meeting with regional administration heads, the new phase of the reform will begin as early as 1 September — before the start of the new academic year. From this date, pupils in middle and senior school years across the country will begin receiving hot meals funded by the state.

Currently, all children in frontline communities, as well as primary school pupils (Years 1–4) in all regions of Ukraine, already receive free hot meals. From the autumn, this scheme will be extended to absolutely all state educational institutions and their equivalents.

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School meals reform: how much funding has the Cabinet allocated for modernisation

To ensure Ukrainian schools can successfully provide children with hot meals, the government has already allocated significant funding. 1 billion hryvnias has been earmarked for the modernisation of 73 catering facilities in educational institutions across Ukraine.

Upgrading kitchen equipment will enable the preparation of high-quality, healthy and safe meals in accordance with modern standards and hygiene requirements. Furthermore, the implementation of this large-scale programme will have a positive impact on the domestic market.

“School meals are not just about social support, but also about developing the local economy, creating jobs and supporting Ukrainian producers,” emphasised Yulia Svyrydenko.

Thus, purchasing food for school canteens from local farmers and businesses will provide an additional stimulus for the development of Ukrainian business in the regions.

Reminder! Ukraine is tightening controls on school attendance to ensure every child’s right to education. Thanks to the new rules, information about truancy will be shared between schools, the police and social services much more quickly. Find out what penalties are in place for parents if a child misses school without a valid reason.

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