Development of uniform classes

In Poland we observe the improvement of uniform classes in secondary schools, which is part of the strategical plans of the Ministry of Defence (MON). The first plans included the creation of 10 troops of military preparation (OPW), but increased this number to 26 to satisfy the increasing interest of youth and schools across the country.

MON sees in this task not only the benefits of defence, but besides the strengthening of links between youth and state institutions. In the opinion of experts, specified initiatives aim not only to increase the number of armed forces, but besides to improve social integration and to build national solidarity.

Military Preparation (OPP) is an innovative expression introduced in Polish secondary schools in 2020. They disagree from earlier military classes due to the fact that the formation of each branch requires the approval of the Ministry of National Defence, which besides provides adequate backing and a patronageal military unit. The intent of the RDP is to prepare young people for military service and to form patriotic and civic attitudes.

As part of the RDP, students participate in theoretical classes throughout their learning period, and training camps are organised in the last class, which let to get applicable military skills. In secondary schools, RDPs operate both in advanced schools and in techniques, where the curriculum lasts 3 and 4 years respectively.

According to data from the Ministry of Defence, 26 fresh troops of military preparation are planned in 2025, which responds to the increasing needs of the state defence and the drive to increase the number of armed forces of the Republic of Poland. This means that more than 2,600 students will be able to participate in the RDP programme in the coming year.

It is worth noting that RDPs disagree from classical military classes besides in organisational terms. The MON must not only agree to their establishment but besides supply adequate funding. Moreover, for each branch, the ministry indicates a military unit that has a patronage function and engages in training and supports the process of youth education.

In practice, this means that ODP students can number on military support for applicable training specified as military camps or field activities. The Ministry of Defence ensures that the process of setting up fresh uniform classes will follow certain procedures and that decisions to establish them will be taken in close cooperation with the bodies moving advanced schools.

Despite affirmative reactions, the task of expanding the number of uniform classes is not free from controversy. any critics point to the risks associated with militarisation of education, and concerns about the early engagement of young people in military matters. There are besides voices that rise the question whether specified classes will dominate another forms of youth training, and whether they will be sufficiently prepared for the realities of modern military service.