“Universal defense begins with a person who knows what to do in a crisis, can take care of themselves, and help others if needed. We have expanded the Citizenship and Defense Skills course – this will provide the younger generation with real practical knowledge on how to act in critical situations,” said Minister of National Defense Robertas Kaunas.
Read more Terrible accident in Alytus district: two cars collided, three people – in hospital
As indicated to BNS by the Ministry of National Defense (KAM), about 5,500 7th–8th grade students attended the one-day course last school year, which accounted for nearly 20 percent of all students in this age group.
According to the ministry, in the future the course is planned to be offered to all 7th–8th grade students.
KAM states that during the one-day course, students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also learn practically how to act in various crises. They are introduced to the basics of survival, first aid, principles of civil defense, orientation in unfamiliar areas, safety, and responsible behavior in crisis situations.
Students also learn how to prepare for and act in the event of a natural disaster, nuclear accident, or military conflict – preparing for evacuation, setting up temporary shelter, safely making a fire, providing first aid to the injured. The essential goal of the course is that a young person does not get lost during a crisis, knows the main actions, and is able not only to take care of themselves but also to help those around them.
The ministry notes that the citizenship and defense skills course in schools is not a new initiative. Since the 2023–2024 school year, it has been organized for ninth graders, and the program’s scope has gradually expanded; currently, all Lithuanian ninth graders attend the three-day course.
Read more Iran’s chief negotiator threatens a faster and more intense response to US attacks
In the course designed for them, members of the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union and invited lecturers teach practical survival and crisis preparedness skills: preparing for evacuation, recognizing civil safety signals, cooking food outdoors, safely making a fire, pitching a tent, providing first aid, and performing resuscitation.
Students are also introduced to the role of citizens in national defense and safe handling of weapons, and they consolidate the acquired knowledge in a final hike.
According to KAM, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports and the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union, pilot Citizenship and Defense Skills classes are planned to start for 5th–6th grade students from 2027.
The ministry states that the foundation gained in the younger grades later allows learning more complex subjects, better understanding one’s role during a crisis, and developing confidence in one’s ability to act.
Read more Silver duets: Lithuanian women became European youth vice-champions
