Learning English is the main motivator for young Ukrainians to study abroad, according to a report by the British Council that also surveyed young people on their political views and civic activity.
Accessing better quality education systems, finding employment abroad and improving employment opportunities at home were also influential drivers mentioned in the survey of 1,600 Ukrainians aged 16-35.
The study found that over half (56%) have a desire to study abroad and 12% actually have plans to do so– a percentage the British Council said is a “comparatively high proportion”.
The UK was the most desirable study destination according to 43% of the students, followed by the US and Germany
However, students said money and lack of English are the main barriers to studying overseas.
Of study destinations, 43% of those surveyed said the UK was the most desirable, followed by the US (38%) and Germany (33%).
“Young Ukrainians – the country’s future leaders and influencers – see the UK as a great place for realising their educational potential and expanding their cultural horizons,” said Simon Williams, the British Council’s country director in Ukraine.
Entitled ‘‘Hopes, Fears and Dreams: The views of Ukraine’s next generation” the study also found that just 41% of respondents think Ukraine will be better than it was before 2014 and 54% think Ukraine should join the EU.
“This research also shows that the future success and stability of Ukraine depend on strengthening its civil society, reforming its education system, expanding the use of English and supporting the growth of modern skills needed for the economy, including in the cultural sector,” added Williams.
