Vice Prime Minister for Innovations, Education, Science, and Technology, Mykhailo Fedorov, stated that extramural studies (part-time and evening education) is a relic of the Soviet-era education system. He made this announcement on Telegram.
Fedorov noted that the government has approved a bill, and once it is passed by the Verkhovna Rada in Ukraine, part-time education will be abolished.
The Vice Prime Minister emphasized that this move will bring Ukraine closer to European education standards.
"We are optimizing higher education and bringing it closer to European standards. Now, students will have more freedom of choice. They will be able to decide how long they study, which subjects interest them, and even change their specialization after 1-2 years of study," he wrote.
According to Fedorov, after the bill is passed, distance learning will replace part-time and evening education, which, in the official's opinion, is more effective.
"Ukraine needs educated citizens, so we are discontinuing part-time education starting from 2024. Part-time education is a relic of the Soviet-era. Distance learning has proven to be more effective than buying diplomas and pursuing education just for the sake of it," he wrote.
Students on a contract basis will also have the flexibility to adjust the duration of their studies. This is particularly relevant for those who are employed, noted Fedorov. As per the authors of the bill, students will have the option to expedite their education and complete a bachelor's degree in 3 years instead of 4, or, conversely, obtain their degree in 6 years.
Additionally, students will have the option to choose their specialization after their first or second year of studies.
"At the age of 17, it's extremely challenging to decide on a lifelong profession. That's why we're giving students more time and opportunities to make their choices. You enter a specific field, study general subjects for 1-2 years, and then select the specific specialization that suits you," explained Fedorov.
