Speaking at the Education of New Ukraine 2.0 conference in Kyiv, Svyrydenko said the government does not plan to change the current testing model next year or thereafter because natural sciences lay the foundation for rebuilding the country.
She called the debate over making math optional "strange" and warned that such a move could harm future applicants and the country itself. Svyrydenko said young people need the analytical skills, knowledge, and abilities that mathematics develops to create the best conditions for life and business. She also urged openness in communicating with the public and reaffirmed the government's firm position on preserving the existing exam structure.
Her statement comes amid active discussion on social media, where graduates have complained that this year's math tasks are significantly more difficult than last year's.
Meanwhile, MPs in the Ukrainian parliament (Verkhovna Rada) have introduced a legislative alternative. Yuliya Hryshyna, chair of the higher education subcommittee, together with 50 lawmakers registered an alternative bill, No. 15254-1, that would reduce the total number of NMT subjects and move mathematics from required exams to electives as early as 2027.
Education Minister Oksen Lisovyi and his ministry have
officially opposed the bill.