The Theirworld chairwoman launches a project to support Ukraine’s youth amid ongoing war

Sarah Brown, chairwoman of the charity Theirworld and wife of former Prime Minister Gordon Brown, has called for more investment in education for children living in conflict zones. Her remarks come as the charity announces a new initiative aimed at supporting young people in Ukraine, particularly in the wake of Russia’s invasion two years ago.

In a statement, Mrs Brown highlighted the importance of education as a key aspect of rebuilding war-torn nations. The new project, launching just before the second anniversary of the invasion, includes the creation of a Museum of Mathematics and an early years development programme. Both initiatives align with the Ukrainian government’s vision to make education a cornerstone of the country’s recovery.

“Children are the greatest casualties of war,” Mrs Brown told the PA news agency. “We don’t do enough in any war to focus on their safety and long-term prospects. Education is vital for their future, and it’s a way we can help them, even in the most challenging circumstances.”

One major element of the project is the £5 million Museum of Mathematics, which will open in Kyiv later this year. The museum will feature over 120 exhibits, alongside an “innovation lab” to support the development of mathematics teachers across Ukraine. To ensure that children in remote areas can access this resource, the museum will also embark on a nationwide tour.

Flexibility is key in conflict zones, Mrs Brown noted. “We need to adapt to where children are, even if their location is unstable. Whether they are in underground schools, temporary buildings, or in neighbouring countries, we will find ways to reach them,” she explained.

Additionally, the early years development programme, a collaboration with Ukraine’s Ministry of Education and Science, will focus on supporting children during the critical first eight years of their lives. Mrs Brown stressed the importance of early childhood investment, pointing out that 90% of brain development occurs in these formative years. The Ukrainian government has recognised this priority, particularly as more than 100 early childhood education centres have been destroyed and thousands more damaged since the start of the war.

More than five million Ukrainian children have seen their education disrupted, both by the pandemic and the ongoing conflict. Mrs Brown explained that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky personally endorsed the early years initiative, recognising the significant educational setbacks, particularly in subjects like maths and science.

In response to the challenges faced by displaced students and teachers, Theirworld has also distributed over 70,000 laptops to facilitate remote learning. Mrs Brown’s organisation has worked to ensure that displaced students maintain a connection to their education, providing online resources and tutoring to help them stay on track despite the turmoil.

“As long as children can’t be in their classrooms, we must take education to them,” Mrs Brown said. “Through digital means and interactive platforms, we can keep children engaged and connected to their learning, no matter where they are.”