Learning city strategies in Ukraine

Over the past year, I’ve been working with local leaders in Kyiv, Lviv, Sumy and Ternopil to support the development of lifelong learning strategies adapted to the realities of conflict‑affected contexts. Partnering with UNESCO Kyiv and DVV International, the work has centred on bringing together municipal teams, education providers and community organisations to rethink how learning (formal, informal and community‑based) can be sustained and expanded even in times of emergency.

Through workshops, policy dialogues and strategy sessions, our focus has been on co‑creation: helping cities assess existing learning provision, identify gaps, and articulate coordinated plans that respond to both immediate needs and longer‑term recovery goals. Many of the discussions have underscored the resilience of local actors and the importance of linking humanitarian, educational and social protection systems to ensure learning remains a priority.