On 16 May 2025, Ukrainian high school students took part in a classroom consultation about border life, local priorities, and their vision for future cooperation. The discussion revealed a mix of practical observations and forward-thinking ideas for rebuilding communities, improving infrastructure, and strengthening ties with Europe.
When asked whether living near a border is an opportunity or a disadvantage, students shared different perspectives.
Some saw it as an opportunity, especially for holding two citizenships and accessing a wider range of services. Others pointed out that in rural areas, where access to cities is limited, it can feel like a disadvantage because essential services are often unavailable locally. Participants also valued the cross-cultural experiences of visiting museums and cultural landmarks in neighboring countries.
One student reflected on her visit to Przemyśl, a Polish city near the Ukrainian border, describing it as calm and peaceful, though lacking activities for young people—many of whom leave in search of more opportunities. Another noted that living near such cities offers practical benefits, including easier access to international shops and better conditions for learning foreign languages.
Regarding areas where cooperation is needed, students emphasized:
- Public transport reform—replacing old marshrutkas (minibuses) with modern buses;
- Environmental improvements, including installing benches, trash bins, drinking water stations, and charging points for electric cars;
- Rebuilding infrastructure damaged by air strikes, particularly lighting and safety on city streets; and
- Upgrading school equipment, such as computers and televisions, to modernize education.
Although specific Interreg projects were not discussed, participants outlined several ambitious ideas for cooperation projects:
- Exchange trips for Ukrainian students to Germany and Austria to improve language skills and promote cultural understanding;
- International business incubators involving teenagers from multiple European countries to foster innovation and collaboration;
- Joint rebuilding projects, where European volunteers help reconstruct Ukraine, while Ukrainian hosts offer green tourism experiences in return; and
- Initiatives promoting green households and eco-tourism, especially in countries where sustainable practices are still developing.
The consultation, held with a single high school class, showed how even within one group of classmates, there is a shared vision of education, sustainability, and European partnership as the foundation for Ukraine’s future recovery and growth.