Ukraine is implementing major changes in the field of preschool education. The Ministry of Education and Science, together with the Ministry of Communities and Territories Development, has updated the State Building Norms (GSN) for kindergartens. The document, aimed at modernizing the approach to the design and construction of educational institutions, will come into force on October 1, 2026.

Flexibility instead of rigid standards

The main goal of updating the regulations is to make the design process more flexible and adapted to modern realities. The new rules are intended to simplify not only the construction of new facilities but also the reconstruction or major repair of existing buildings. In particular, the document provides for the possibility of converting existing premises into kindergartens.

One of the key innovations is the possibility of designing facilities with a smaller capacity. This decision is aimed at developing the network of preschool institutions in small communities, as well as in areas with dense urban development, where the construction of large facilities is difficult.

European standards and comfort

The updated GSN is harmonized with European approaches to creating an educational environment. The developers of the document paid special attention to the quality of life of children and teachers. The new requirements comprehensively include parameters that affect physical and psychological well-being:

  • Air quality and ventilation systems;
  • Thermal and acoustic comfort;
  • Safe use of glass in structures;
  • Room lighting;
  • Arrangement of safe playgrounds.

In addition, the principles of barrier-free environment and universal design are integrated into all key provisions of the document. This should ensure accessibility of education for all children, regardless of their individual needs and health conditions.

Transition period and deadlines

New norms will apply to all preschool education institutions, regardless of the form of ownership, during new construction, reconstruction, and major repair. The Ministry of Education and Science has explained the procedure for transitioning to new standards.

A transition period is provided for projects for which the design and cost documentation is already ready. If the customer manages to pass the expertise and obtain permission to start construction work before October 1, 2026, the implementation of the project can be carried out according to current rules. In case the permit is issued after the specified date, the documentation will have to be brought into compliance with the updated State Building Norms.

Experts note that the update of norms opens up opportunities for the application of modern architectural solutions, which previously did not have clear regulatory regulation. This will allow creating more functional and aesthetic spaces for children's development.