The educational complex of Chernivtsi Oblast: dynamics and current state

The article analyzes the dynamics of the main indicators of the educational complex of Chernivtsi Oblast for the years 1995 to 2022. The coefficients of localization and territorial concentration of educational institutions in the territorial communities (hromadas) of the region are calculated, on their basis the level of development of the educational complex and its territorial differences are determined. Attention is drawn to the problematic aspects of the educational sector in Chernivtsi Oblast and ways of solving them are proposed. Education is one of the most important spheres of human life and plays a significant role in shaping social potential. The development of the economy, science, culture, and thus the overall competitiveness of the region largely depends on it. To ensure high-quality and accessible education, a necessary condition is the development of a network of institutions and a high level of their material and technical support. It is important not only to provide everyone with access to quality education, but also to monitor the dynamics of educational processes and make appropriate adjustments in a timely manner. The study of the educational complex of Chernivtsi Oblast made it possible to identify its strengths and weaknesses, disparities in spatial organization, and development prospects. During the period from 1995 to 2022, there were noticeable changes in the educational complex of the region. Positive trends are observed in the field of preschool education, namely: an increase in the number of institutions, places and children in them, as well as a significant increase in the level of coverage of children by preschool education institutions. At the same time, there was a noticeable reduction in the network of general secondary education institutions, a decrease in the number of teachers and students in them. Similar trends can be observed in vocational and higher education. Today, the educational complex of Chernivtsi Oblast is represented by a wide range of institutions. However, significant differences in its development level can be observed across the hromadas of the region. The most developed network of educational institutions is characteristic of Chernivtsi urban hromada. Vyzhnytsia, Hlyboka, Kitsman, Novodnistrovsk, Storozhynets, and Khotyn hromadas are characterized by a high level of development. Among the outsiders are Velykyi Kuchuriv, Krasnoilsk, Toporivtsi, Berehomet, Petrivtsi, Vashkivtsi, Kamianka, and Chudei hromadas. In addition, there are significant differences in the development of the educational complex between urban and rural settlements. The educational complex of Chernivtsi Oblast has a number of problems that need to be addressed. The main efforts should be directed at increasing funding for educational institutions, providing them with modern technical equipment, upgrading teachers' skills, ensuring decent salaries and raising the prestige of teaching. It is important to introduce new forms and methods of training and actively involve young specialists. It is also appropriate to develop cooperation with other countries. Keywords: social infrastructure, educational complex, education, educational institutions, Chernivtsi Oblast.