The President of Ukraine has enacted a new bill aimed at enhancing volunteerism among students. A significant provision allows volunteer work to be counted as practical experience in educational institutions.

This document, labeled as No. 11159, was submitted for consideration back in April 2024. The authors of the bill emphasize the need for a more structured approach to volunteer activities in Ukraine.

The explanatory note highlights that volunteerism provides youth with opportunities to develop skills and gain practical experience.

According to Article 434 of the Association Agreement between Ukraine and the European Union, one of the tasks for the Ukrainian state is to support youth in acquiring knowledge and skills outside the educational system, particularly through volunteer activities, thus recognizing the value of such experiences.

Volunteerism enables young people to enhance their skills, which is beneficial not only for their future educational pursuits but also for entering the job market.

With these new provisions, volunteer experience can influence admissions to educational institutions, as it can be included in an applicant's motivation letter. Copies of documents supporting the volunteer work can also be attached.

The law also allows for the counting of volunteer hours as practical experience, provided it aligns with the educational program of the institution with the university's consent.

Volunteers will receive a certificate confirming their participation in volunteer activities from community, charitable, or volunteer organizations.