Ukraine to introduce basic military training in universities

Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Defense and Brigadier General of Justice, Serhiy Melnyk, reported the information.

Basic general military training will consist of two parts:

• a theoretical course of 90 academic hours, which students will take at their educational institutions;
• practical course - 210 academic hours in training units, centers of the Armed Forces and other institutions.

“All students, both men and women, must take the theory course. The practical course is mandatory only for men who are fit for military service based on their health. Women can take the practical course only upon request and after passing a medical examination,” Melnyk said.

The defense ministry explained that during the training, students will receive basic knowledge of tactical, intelligence and psychological training, first aid, and the basics of military discipline. They will also master the skills of handling weapons.

After passing the basic military training, students will take the military oath and receive a certificate and a military specialty, the Defense Ministry added.

Background. On January 15, 2025, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed the draft law on amendments to the Law of Ukraine “On Military Duty and Military Service” regarding the peculiarities of registering Ukrainian citizens for military service No. 12076, adopted by the Verkhovna Rada. The document, in particular, provides for the systematic introduction of basic general military training for students pursuing higher education.

• President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that currently, 880,000 soldiers serve in the Ukrainian army, defending the entire territory of the country.