Ukrainians share memes and optimism on Sept. 1 amidst ongoing war

Due to regular attacks by Russian kamikaze drones and rocket strikes on civilian infrastructure, some first-graders had to observe Knowledge Day in bomb shelters and other safe havens.

Other students spent their first day learning about how to operate drones as part of a new ‘Defense of Ukraine’ class being piloted.

All students spent part of their day speaking about mental health, thanks to an initiative promoted by Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska.

The celebration is also overshadowed by the fact that, due to Russian military aggression, not all children can share it with their parents.

Ukraine’s defenders are providing guidance to the children, motivating them to study diligently to ultimately bring prosperity to their homeland.

Showing their resilience in the face of adversity, Ukrainian society continues to show that it is looking to the future with optimism.