Instead of Gold Medals: New Criteria for Distinctions for School Graduates.

The Ministry of Education and Science is changing the system of awards for school graduates

The Ministry of Education and Science has decided to abolish the Regulations on gold and silver medals. Starting from 2025, these medals will no longer be produced at the expense of the state budget. Instead, school graduates who have achieved success in their studies will receive a certificate of education with distinction.

'The cancellation of the Regulations on gold and silver medals means that starting from 2025, the production and awarding of gold and silver medals to school graduates for academic success at the expense of the state budget will cease. At the same Time, school graduates who successfully complete their studies and have high results will receive a Certificate of Complete General Secondary Education with Distinction,' the Ministry of Education and Science reported.

The Ministry of Education and Science noted that in accordance with Article 16 of the Law of Ukraine 'On Complete General Secondary Education', students can receive various types of moral and material encouragement and recognition for special achievements in studies, research, search, scientific activities, cultural events, sports competitions, etc.

In addition to gold and silver medals, such encouragement includes awarding a commendation and a certificate.

The ministry emphasizes that the types and forms of encouragement and recognition of students are determined by the founding documents of the educational institution and the regulations on the encouragement and recognition of students, which is approved by the pedagogical council.

'The decision on the encouragement (recognition) of a student is made by the pedagogical council of the educational institution. Authorities, local self-government bodies, public associations, legal and natural persons can also encourage and recognize the academic and other achievements of students,' the Ministry of Education and Science emphasized.