Zaporizhzhia Builds Underground Schools Amid War

In Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine, families face the dual threats of Russian artillery and the nearby Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, prompting local authorities to construct underground schools designed to withstand both radiation and bomb attacks. With a capacity for 12,000 students, these facilities aim to provide education in safety amid ongoing conflict, as traditional classrooms remain empty due to security concerns. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has highlighted the dangers posed by Russian military strategies targeting nuclear facilities, raising alarms over potential disasters. Parents, like Kateryna Ryzhko, express relief at the prospect of safe schooling after nearly four years of online learning, emphasizing the importance of education for the next generation. The initiative has garnered substantial financial support from international donors, underscoring the city's resilience in the face of adversity. Construction of the underground schools reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding the future of Zaporizhzhia's children against the backdrop of war.