Starting today, communities can submit applications for the modernisation of school kitchen units and canteens!
- Feb 16
- 2 min read
In 2026, the Government updated the rules for granting subsidies to modernise school kitchen units and canteens. The state budget allocated UAH 1 billion for this purpose. From the moment the Resolution is published, communities will be able to submit applications for the modernisation of school kitchen units and canteens.
There are three ways to organise meals: ‘basic kitchen’, ‘hub kitchen’ and ‘factory kitchen’. This model allows communities to choose a solution that is right for them based on factors such as the number of students, transportation issues, and available material and technical resources.
General secondary education institutions, including military and naval lyceums, lyceums with enhanced military and physical training, and special institutions, are eligible for the subsidy. The main requirement is to enrol at least 200 students. However, schools with 100 or more students may also apply if they are the only educational institution in the community that provides full-time or blended learning.
Funding will be provided for the comprehensive renovation of food service facilities, including the purchase of new professional equipment and the reconstruction or major repair of premises. It will also cover the completion of modernisation projects started in 2025, provided they are at least 60% complete.
The state will cover between 70% and 95% of the cost, depending on the community’s financial capabilities. The remaining cost is covered by the local budget.
When selecting the winners, the scale of coverage of children with meals, the availability of protective infrastructure in the educational institution, and the level of co-financing by the community will be assessed.
Modernising school infrastructure is about more than just equipment and repairs. It entails a systematic approach to children's health and the establishment of a culture of quality nutrition. The modernisation of school canteens is part of the school nutrition reform initiated by First Lady Olena Zelenska and implemented in educational institutions throughout Ukraine.
The DECIDE project is implemented by NGO DOCCU and PHZH International Projects in Education with the support of the Embassy of Switzerland in Ukraine.