UNITED24 and Unbreakable Ukraine: Rebuilding War-Damaged Schools
Overview
UNITED24, the official fundraising platform of Ukraine, has teamed up with the immersive exhibition Unbreakable Ukraine to raise funds aimed at restoring war-damaged educational institutions. This initiative emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage and memory as a vital component of nurturing future generations.
Exhibition Details
- Debut: The exhibition launched its international debut at the Smithsonian Ars Electronica Festival in Linz, Austria, from September 9 to 13, 2026.
- Purpose: The project serves both as a record of what remains standing in Ukraine and a poignant warning of what might be lost.
- Organizers: The exhibit is presented by the BORISTENE Cultural Association, co-produced by the Italian studio SARAVÁ Project, and partnered with Ars Electronica Futurelab.
Fundraising Initiative
Visitors to the exhibition will be encouraged to donate to the UNITED24 Education and Science program, fostering direct support for the reconstruction of the damaged educational landscape in Ukraine.
Key Highlights of the Exhibition
- Use of Technology: The exhibition employs high-resolution 3D scans, cinematic animations, and storytelling techniques to engage the audience deeply.
- Featured Sites: The exhibition includes landmarks such as:
- Saint Sophia Cathedral in Kyiv: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its cornice was damaged due to missile strikes.
- Saint George’s Cathedral in Lviv: Another UNESCO site, this 18th-century structure treasures both cultural and architectural significance.
- The Odesa Opera House: Renowned as one of Ukraine’s oldest theaters with a blend of architectural styles.
- Chernihiv Regional Library: Esteemed for its historical value, it incurred severe damage from shelling.
- Karazin Kharkiv National University: An educational institution repeatedly targeted during the conflict.
Cultural Impact and Support
The initiative is backed by major sponsors and supported under the auspices of the Office of the President of Ukraine and the Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications. It aims to open a permanent exhibit at the Ars Electronica Center and plan international tours.
Conclusion
As the exhibition unfolds, it stands as a testament to Ukraine’s resilience and a call to action for global support in reconstructing the educational framework that holds the key to the country’s future.
