The ‘Kapitoshka’ nursery school in Bucha, Kyiv Oblast, has received a diesel generator and a modern backup power system as part of an international aid initiative, according to Andon Sapundži, Serbia’s ambassador to Ukraine, on his Facebook page.
The facility was provided with a 35 kW (or 44 kVA) diesel generator, as well as a hybrid backup power system comprising an inverter and batteries. The equipment is intended to ensure the nursery’s uninterrupted operation in the event of external power cuts.
According to the Education Department of Bucha City Council, ‘Kapitoshka’ previously had no alternative power sources. The installed system will enable the nursery to increase its energy independence and maintain stable conditions for the children even during potential power cuts.
According to the Telegram channel Serbian Economist, the aid was delivered by the Maltese Relief Service as part of the Sovereign Order of Malta’s Warmth for Ukraine programme. An international delegation, comprising diplomatic representatives and deputy heads of mission from the Sovereign Order of Malta, Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Croatia, Poland and North Macedonia, visited the nursery where the equipment has already been installed.
“Unfortunately, modern wars share one common characteristic. They primarily target those most affected by the war. And we must protect these people,” said Antonio Gazzanti Puliese di Cotrone, Ambassador of the Sovereign Order of Malta to Ukraine.
“That is why I am particularly pleased that a project aimed at meeting the needs of children has been completed. This is for the future of Ukraine and for the whole world,” he added.
Andon Sapundži, Serbia’s Ambassador to Ukraine, emphasised the significance of the project for Bucha and its residents.
“This town and its residents are heroes who stood firm in the face of the horrific crimes of 2022. Your courage and unity are an example to us all. The launch of the hybrid energy system at the ‘Kapitoshka’ nursery is not only a technical foundation but also a symbol of care for the future. This project is the result of joint efforts and international solidarity,” he said.
Taras Shapravsky, Secretary of the Bucha City Council, noted that a difficult winter may lie ahead, which is why such support is particularly important for the community’s education sector.
Nikita Gerashchenko spoke on behalf of the Kyiv Regional State Administration. He stated that thanks to the implementation of such projects, more educational and social infrastructure facilities are becoming energy-independent and energy-efficient.
For Serbia, participation in such humanitarian projects has not only diplomatic but also practical significance. Belgrade has not officially joined the EU’s anti-Russian sanctions, but is providing humanitarian support to Ukraine, including through international frameworks and assistance to civil infrastructure.
