On October, 6, 2016 Vitaliy Pivnyak, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Lithuania in Dnipro, sent 15 students to study in an international school "Vilnius Lithuanian’s house." The Government of the Republic of Lithuania for three consecutive years finances the education and accommodation of young displaced persons and children of ATO participant’s.
All 15 children come from Luhansk and Dnipropetrovsk regions. Some of them have lost their homes during the war, and some of the children have even lost their parents during the ongoing conflict. Therefore, it is important to create a safe environment and the opportunity to continue education for those who have been painfully affected by military aggression.
"Almost a year in the European school is an opportunity for my daughter to see the world, gain new experience and escape from the bitter memories of war," shares her thoughts Zozulya Olena, displaced person from Donetsk.
"I want to learn many interesting things, meet new people, and get inspiration. My parents are worrying about me, but I calm them down, saying that everything will be fine," said Andriy Zozulya.
In the same way as before, the children and teacher of the Ukrainian language, who was also invited to the Republic of Lithuania, during the 2016/2017 academic year, will be provided with free accommodation, seasonal clothing, pocket-money and entertainment tours by European country. Lithuanian Embassy in Ukraine, Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Lithuania in Dnipro and Dnipropetrovsk Regional State Administration were engaged in children’s departure.
"I am happy that my son came into the project. I hope that in the future he will be able to realize the positive aspects, received from the programme for the prosperity of our country," said Natalia Filipenko.
It is worth noting that this is only part of the effort from Lithuania to help the Ukrainians, many projects related to rehabilitation of children and men, affected by ongoing hostilities, are on account of Lithuania. The people of Lithuania show true solidarity to Ukraine.
We wish students have fun this year, show curiosity, learn the history and culture of Lithuania, to tie new contacts with peers, as friendly relations between people is the strongest foundation of a happy and peaceful neighborhood between countries.
