Despite the legal guarantees of free education in Ukraine, parents of students still face demands to pay for repairs, textbooks, or school events. However, such fees are illegal unless they are completely voluntary.
The Coordination Center for Free Legal Aid reminds us of this: all contributions should be made exclusively at the parents' request, and not under pressure or at the direction of the school administration or parent committee.
Do they have the right to demand money from their parents?
No. No school has the right to force parents to finance an educational institution. According to the Constitution and laws of Ukraine, education in state and municipal institutions is free. If parents decide to help financially, it should be a voluntary contribution , which is transferred to the official school account.
Any cash payments "on hand" are illegal.
What to do if you are asked for money?
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Write a statement to the school principal. The format is arbitrary, the gist is: a request for clarification regarding fundraising.
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Submit the application in duplicate:
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one for school,
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the second one is for you with a note of acceptance (date and incoming number).
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Wait for an official response within 30 days.
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If there is no response or the extortion continues, contact the local government or education department.
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If that doesn't help, file a police report about the extortion.
Remember: the right to free education is guaranteed by the state. Any actions that violate this right must receive an appropriate legal response.
