Humanitarian catastrophe, recovery, and militarization: why do science, fundamental education, and veterans need information support?
Iryna Zhdanova, founder of the Churyumov Science Lyceum/Boarding School, PhD in History
Do we need science, fundamental education, engineering, mathematics, and technology? This question becomes rhetorical, with an obvious answer – YES. At the same time, there is a profound gap between the demand for skilled professionals in domestic energy, urban development, logistics, healthcare, and the defense industry, and the current education policy. One of the key problems is the absence of a national information campaign in support of science and education – not viewed solely through the lens of humanitarian needs today (and yesterday), but through the lens of humanitarian catastrophe, post-war recovery, and the creation of a strong militarized state in the center of Europe.
For this reason, I decided to take part in the конкурс for the position of member of the Supervisory Board of Public Broadcasting in the fields of education and science. I clearly remember my previous experience of competing for a seat on the Supervisory Board of the National Council of Ukraine on Television and Radio Broadcasting in the field of child and youth protection, where I placed second. As a result of backstage agreements between civil society organizations brought in as conference delegates, the process was manipulated in a cynical manner. Nevertheless, I am not someone who gives up without a fight. I am publishing my program and am convinced that in Ukraine there is a community capable of implementing it regardless of the outcome of the competition.
Program of the Candidate for the Supervisory Board of the National Council of Ukraine on Television and Radio Broadcasting from the NGO “Open Policy Foundation” Iryna Zhdanova, Coordinator of the Civic Platform for Reforming the Scientific Sector
My program is aimed at providing information support for Ukrainian science and education through public broadcasting, within the powers of a member of the Supervisory Board as defined by the Law of Ukraine “On Public Media of Ukraine”, the Regulations on the Supervisory Board of the National Council of Ukraine on Television and Radio Broadcasting, and the Charter of the National Council of Ukraine on Television and Radio Broadcasting.
The program focuses on shaping strategic priorities of activity, monitoring compliance with standards, and establishing advisory bodies. Of particular importance is the involvement of expert potential from science communicators and educators who are familiar with European norms and policies of citizen science and education.
Priority 1. Accessible Fundamental Secondary Education for a Knowledge-Intensive Economy
A strategic focus on defining the priorities of the National Council of Ukraine on Television and Radio Broadcasting in covering innovation, fundamental education, and STEAM fields in general and specialized schools, as well as in colleges.
STEAM is an acronym for:
S — Science,
T — Technology,
E — Engineering,
A — Arts / Creative Industries,
M — Mathematics.
Explaining to parents why mathematics, physics, and other natural sciences matter. Providing information support to reduce parental anxieties and misconceptions. Popularizing science education, including among students in rural areas, small towns, and those temporarily abroad. Supporting career guidance for school students toward exact sciences and engineering professions in cooperation with colleges and universities.
Priority 2. Science for Defense
Popularization of the work of scientists — both theorists and experimentalists — whose research influences technological solutions related to national defense and security. Strengthening citizens’ critical thinking, social cohesion, and understanding of the role of science in society, with a clear balance between open and classified information concerning developments by Ukrainian scientists.
Engaging experts in the fields of defense and science to develop analytical materials for the public broadcaster. Training journalists on how to cover scientific topics in accordance with European standards.
Priority 3. Veteran Education for Care and Professional Retraining
A strategic focus on education for veterans, including support for inclusive programs in colleges and universities aimed at retraining veterans who have sustained injuries, lost mobility, or have health impairments. Strengthening links with business, including Defense Tech, while emphasizing respect for veterans’ dignity, evidence-based approaches, and the prevention of stigmatization.
These three priorities will be achieved through networking and strengthening synergy: developing partnerships with local educational and scientific initiatives and engaging “field” experts who operate without donor funding and are therefore more independent in advocating for this sensitive area – education and science.
My program is aimed at ensuring the independence, transparency, high quality, and public relevance of educational and scientific content of the National Council of Ukraine on Television and Radio Broadcasting, without interference in editorial decisions or the current operational activities of the broadcaster. The goal is for public broadcasting to become an accessible and effective instrument for the development of science and education in support of Ukraine’s victory and recovery.
