On 17 April in Rivne, as part of the initiative “Dialogue of Associations as a Basis for Multilevel Governance”, the Swedish-Ukrainian Polaris programme held its second roundtable with representatives of the boards of four national local government associations – the Association of Ukrainian Cities, the All-Ukrainian Association of Territorial Communitities, the All-Ukrainian Association of Amalgamated Territorial Communitities, and the Ukrainian Association of District and Regional Councils.
The core theme of the event was the reform of upper secondary schools: its implications, potential risks, and the essential need for inclusive public dialogue. Particular emphasis was placed on the role of hromadas in building an equitable and accessible school network. Yet the event was not only about education – it was also about the art of dialogue, listening to different perspectives, and finding common ground despite divergent views.
Two in-depth sessions, dozens of questions, and lively debate once again confirmed the relevance of this topic for hromadas. Participants discussed legislative initiatives and the process of establishing networks of academic lyceums, explored ways to prevent educational marginalisation in remote areas, and analysed the risks of delayed or poorly considered decisions. Special attention was given to the importance of a coordinated position from local self-government within the broader national dialogue on education reform.
The discussion was moderated by Ihor Dobko, an expert with the Polaris Programme. The analytical overview was provided by Oleh Fasolya, Team Lead for Polaris on “Education on the Local and Regional Level.”
The Polaris Programme supports a sustainable multilevel dialogue to ensure that reforms take into account the needs of both national and local levels. Hromadas not only have the right to be heard – they must be active participants in shaping change. It is through openness, mutual respect, and a willingness to collaborate that real solutions are born.
