A Message from Terekhov to Graduates in Frontline Cities After the Final Bell.
Greetings to the Class of 2023
According to Novyny.live: Ihor Terekhov, head of the Association of Frontline Cities and Communities, addressed Ukrainian graduates on the occasion of the 2023 Last Bell ceremony. He commended their resilience despite the extremely difficult conditions under which they studied. This year was marked by extraordinary circumstances, as many schools—including Kharkiv’s School No. 134—were destroyed during the war in 2022.
A Symbol of Unbreakable Spirit
Terekhov recalled a powerful image from the previous year: the graduation waltz performed by Kharkiv schoolchildren amid the ruins of School No. 134.
“All of Ukraine has already seen the symbol of this generation—the graduation waltz of Kharkiv children near the rubble of School No. 134 in 2022,” he stated.That moment came to represent the courage and determination of young people who, despite overwhelming adversity, refused to pause their education.
He also emphasized that these graduates deserve far more than just a diploma.
“Because after everything you’ve been through, you deserve more than a certificate. You deserve peace. You deserve safety. You deserve great opportunities. You deserve a country that knows how to protect its children,” Terekhov said.He urged every graduate to recognize that they are a source of pride—not only for their academic achievements but also for the way they navigated this difficult journey while holding onto hope.
Such words of support and recognition carry special weight for young people studying in frontline cities, including:
- Kharkiv
- Kherson
- Zaporizhzhia
- Mykolaiv
- Sumy
- Dnipro
- Odesa
- Kyiv
These graduates, who have endured some of the most trying times, stand as witnesses to the unyielding spirit of the Ukrainian people. Their educational journey continues to inspire others.
This occasion marks a significant milestone for students who managed to complete their schooling during wartime despite immense challenges. The Class of 2023 embodies hope for recovery and a peaceful future, serving as a model of perseverance for generations to come. Acknowledging their accomplishments and offering societal support can help create a more encouraging environment for young people to realize their potential, even under the most adverse circumstances.
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