Ukrainian schools celebrate Knowledge Day on Sept 1

Ukrainian students have returned to schools and colleges throughout Ukraine, and the youngest students for the first time have come to classrooms.

It must be noted that more and more Ukrainian schools are moving away from Soviet traditions of celebrating the Day of Knowledge. However, the ritual when a first-grader holding a school bell in hands is carried on a future school-leaver's shoulders remains a firm tradition.

Also, school uniforms and dresses have been changed to suit the national style, with embroidery, circlets of flowers and more.

UNIAN photo journalists attended the official school events on the occasion of the Day of Knowledge in Kyiv Lviv, Odesa, Chernihiv and other cities.

Some children were genuinely happy about the beginning of the new school year, while others were rather unhappy over having to wake up so early to go to school. Some looked too serious on September 1.

Celebrations included traditional dancing, singing and creative activities performed by the students.