Knowledge Day

While for Japanese people the beginning of school is associated with delicate pink cherry blossoms, for Ukrainians it is linked to golden autumn, woven from fine drops of rain, aster and chrysanthemum petals, pumpkin seeds, and the ancient patterns of Ukrainian embroidered shirts.

This image inevitably recalls the famous works of Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama—an infinite world composed of millions of vivid dots and specks. Every child in Ukraine is one such bright dot on the canvas of the future, creating their own universe with light despite the dark background of war.

September 1 is celebrated in Ukraine as Knowledge Day and traditionally marks the beginning of the new academic year. On this day, Ukrainian pupils wear vyshyvankas—national embroidered clothing decorated with geometric and floral patterns—transforming school grounds into living art galleries. The ceremonies themselves take place according to the security situation: online, in classrooms, or in specially equipped protected spaces within schools.

Today, these safe spaces are no longer merely basements. They are decorated with colourful patterns and circles, turning them into places of art therapy. Drawing helps children relieve emotional tension, cope with anxiety, and restore inner calm through creativity.

The courage and resilience of Ukrainian schoolchildren—as well as the dedication of teachers who carefully lead children to shelters during air-raid alerts and continue the learning process—command profound respect.

The opportunity to begin a new academic year is the result of extraordinary collective efforts. It has been made possible by Ukrainian defenders, volunteers, and international support.

Japan is making a significant contribution. Through the World Bank’s LEARN project, it has provided US$100 million to improve school safety and supply school buses. Through the Kusanone programme, Japan supports the renovation of schools in Kyiv, Zhytomyr, Odesa, and Mykolaiv. Together with UNESCO, it also provides laptops for teachers and creates digital learning centres for children.

This solidarity helps secure Ukrainian children’s right to safe education and a future.