Ukrainian Education Minister Oksen Lisovyi has voiced strong opposition to a legislative proposal that seeks to eliminate mathematics as a mandatory subject in the National Multi-Subject Test (NMT). Speaking in Kyiv on June 8, Lisovyi emphasized the high demand for skilled professionals in Ukraine and dismissed claims regarding the excessive difficulty of this year’s tests as unfounded.
The proposed legislation, known as Bill No. 15254-1, is backed by a group of 50 lawmakers, including its initiator, Yuliia Hryshyna, a member of the ruling Servant of the People party. Hryshyna argues that the current testing format is overly challenging for students, especially given that they are required to take four subjects in a single day.
“Many students are considering studying abroad due to the difficulties they face in frontline regions, where getting to testing sites can be perilous,” Hryshyna stated in an interview. “The stress of constant air raids and shelling can severely impact their performance.”
Hryshyna also noted that the conditions for students have worsened since the onset of the full-scale war, with many adolescents experiencing anxiety and sleep deprivation that hinder their ability to concentrate.
In contrast, Lisovyi argues that mathematics is essential for higher education, as it fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills. He labeled the idea of removing mathematics from the NMT as “absurd” and detrimental to the country’s educational standards.
“The NMT is designed for wartime conditions, but we must eventually return to the previous system of external independent testing (ZNO),” Lisovyi said. “Any format must ensure that students possess fundamental skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic.”
Roman Hryshchuk, another lawmaker and member of the education committee, echoed Lisovyi’s sentiments. He argued that mathematics is a crucial discipline for developing logical reasoning, which is vital for both technical and humanities students.
Tetiana Vakulenko, head of the Ukrainian Center for Educational Quality Assessment, also defended the inclusion of mathematics, asserting that it is critical for ensuring that students pursuing higher education have the necessary competencies.
“These subjects assess essential competencies that guarantee the quality of higher education,” Vakulenko explained.
Timofiy Milovanov, president of the Kyiv School of Economics, criticized the legislative initiative as populist and harmful to the nation. He highlighted that mathematics is foundational for national security and the defense industry, asserting that the test is relatively straightforward and encourages learning.
Regarding the complexity of the NMT, Lisovyi stated that this year’s tests are consistent with those of previous years. He emphasized that the Ministry of Education aims to dispel myths that could discourage students from pursuing their education in Ukraine.
“If students want to attend university, they must take this test. However, if they feel unprepared, vocational education is a viable and valuable option,” he stated.
Lisovyi noted that the Ministry is actively promoting vocational training, given the current high demand for skilled workers. He shared that his own educational background includes vocational training, which did not hinder his career advancement.
The NMT was introduced in 2022 as a response to the full-scale invasion by Russia, replacing the previous system of external independent testing. This new format allows students to take a computer-based test that combines multiple subjects, which can also be administered abroad.
The Ukrainian Education Minister has firmly opposed a legislative proposal to remove mathematics from the National Multi-Subject Test, arguing it is essential for higher education. The debate continues as lawmakers and educational leaders emphasize the importance of maintaining rigorous academic standards amid ongoing challenges.