Zelenskyy has signed the law on national resistance: compulsory training for university and school students
This was reported by the Verkhovna Rada’s press service.
The plan involves replacing basic military training for students with a new model – training in national resistance, which will be compulsory regardless of gender.
A key element will be the introduction of a new subject, ‘Fundamentals of National Resistance’, as well as an update to the subject ‘Defence of Ukraine’. It is expected that this will enable a broad range of citizens to develop basic defence skills whilst still in education.
The law provides for a stronger practical component. In particular, specialised centres will be established to train young people, and live-fire exercises will take place at the training grounds and firing ranges of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, as well as at other certified sites and on simulators.
At the same time, the system takes inclusivity into account: for individuals with religious beliefs that prohibit the use of weapons, provision is made for the replacement of relevant training modules. People with disabilities or those who have lost their ability to work will be exempt from practical training.
The document also clarifies the powers of the government, central executive bodies and local authorities in the field of national resistance. This involves establishing a comprehensive system for preparing the population for the defence of the country.
“The adoption of this Law is a strategic step towards strengthening our state’s defence capabilities. We are implementing a systematic approach that will enable every citizen to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to defend their country,” said Committee Chair Oleksandr Zavitnevych.
According to him, updating programmes and establishing training centres is a response to the challenges of war, and the system itself will become more flexible and inclusive.
