Ukraine: Safer learning environment for Mykolaiv students — renovation of Construction College completed

The project focused on key safety and accessibility improvements across two educational buildings and the college’s shelters, ensuring that classes can continue even during air alerts.

Founded in 1944, the college is one of the city’s oldest educational institutions and has trained nearly 50,000 professionals for Ukraine’s construction sector.

Its main building, an architectural monument from the 19th century, remains an important part of Mykolaiv’s educational landscape. 

With support from DRC and funding from DMFA, comprehensive repair and refurbishment works were carried out throughout 2024, including: 

• replacement of 212 windows and installation of 66 doors;
• repair of walls, ceilings, and floors in both the simple and radiation-proof shelters;
• modernisation of lighting systems;
• installation of accessible restrooms and a lift for persons with disabilities.

The upgraded shelters can now host up to 600 people — including students, staff, and residents of nearby buildings during emergencies.

Partnership for safer education

The Solidarity Foundation, Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), and MEGABUD contributed to the project through targeted upgrades that strengthened the shelters’ reliability, ventilation, and energy efficiency.  

With this intervention, DRC seeks to support not only the college’s operations.

In a war-affected oblast where infrastructure damage is widespread, DRC also contributes to developing new professionals in the construction sector — building the workforce that will lead the reconstruction of Mykolaiv and other regions of Ukraine. 

The project is part of a wider Danish-supported effort to restore essential infrastructure and sustain education across southern Ukraine.

By investing in safe learning spaces and supporting vocational institutions like the Mykolaiv Construction College, DMFA and DRC help ensure that education continues despite the ongoing war — enabling local communities to recover, adapt, and prepare for future reconstruction.