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Polish education ministry proposes defense-readiness training in schools

10.03.2025 16:00
Poland’s Education Minister Barbara Nowacka announced plans to include civil defense training in the national physical education curriculum and expand cooperation with the military, aiming to better prepare students for crisis situations and potential military service.
Polish Education Minister Barbara Nowacka.
Polish Education Minister Barbara Nowacka.PAP/Michał Meissner

Nowacka told students at the 11th Students’ Round Table event in Katowice on Monday that the draft changes will “provide young people with more endurance and practical skills in tough times.”

New curriculum emphasis

She said an urgent review of other course syllabi is underway, focusing on making “education for safety” more crisis-oriented while leaving mental health topics within health education classes.

Nowacka also plans to discuss with the defense ministry how to deepen collaboration in the existing “Education with the Army” program—a series of theoretical and practical exercises led by Polish armed forces.

Religion classes under scrutiny?

Students also questioned the relevance of religious studies, particularly the need for grading a non-mandatory subject that does not factor into their grade point average.

Nowacka said assessments provide feedback on students’ knowledge, but agreed they should not affect overall grades.

She added that due to legal obligations under the Concordat, religious lessons will remain—albeit limited to one hour per week, scheduled as the first or last lesson of the day—starting in September 2025.

(jh)

Source: Polskie Radio 24