Prague 10: Ukrainian schools can solve the problem of places in schools
“One of the outcomes of the negotiations with the Ambassador was that this topic deserves a broader debate, involving all actors. I have offered a platform on behalf of the Senate that we could have a discussion with the Ministry of Education, but it is necessary that practitioners are also involved. Today, the debates have shown that a combination of those solutions will be needed, “said Chmelová.
According to the mayor, there are now over 5,000 refugees and 2,000 children in Prague 10. “If we were to have the obligation to integrate all children who are registered as living in Prague 10, we would immediately need two new primary and four schools,” said Chmelová.
In its schools so far, the town hall has set aside 395 originally vacancies for refugee children. But they are already full. “One option is Ukrainian schools. The second is to use the capacity of the Central Bohemian Region. We can imagine that even these children can travel somewhere to school and fill vacancies. We can organize it, arrange an escort, but it is necessary for the government to send a signal for a solution, “said Chmelová.
Lack of seats, therefore, the town hall now solves with the mentioned adaptation groups. “We managed to create a group in the Jasmínova kindergarten with a capacity of 50 children and at the same time we created about 150 places in adaptation events at individual elementary schools, where we could involve children and teach the Czech language,” said Chmelová. The adaptation group in Jasmínov has been operating for about a week and has the last few vacancies. Children are cared for by native speakers and, in addition to teachers, volunteers.
The city district has introduced Czech courses for refugees. There are now 100 places in them and the same number will be added within two weeks. She also set aside flats for the so-called helping professions. For example, pediatricians, adult doctors or educators will be needed for integration. “We need two pediatricians who would like to work immediately, but Czech legislation does not allow it,” said the mayor. According to her, the government must be “bolder” and find a way to involve them in the work process.
Today, the town hall, together with the ambassador, visited an apartment building in Malešice intended for refugees or the aforementioned adaptation group. “I had the opportunity to talk to Ukrainians, especially Ukrainians, in an apartment building and I must say that they are enthusiastic about help and solidarity. “We appreciate it very much,” said Perebyjnis. He also said that he was aware of capacity problems in kindergartens and primary schools. “It is up to the Czech government to prepare it, but we are also ready to get involved as much as possible,” he added.
Ukrainian children lack friends and dads. The first days in Prague were hard, but they are gradually getting used to it, they agree with the Ukrainian teachers.
Author: Grammar School of International and Public Relations, David Zima