As part of an ongoing partnership with the government of Denmark, UNOPS is helping implement a three-year project to restore key public infrastructure and services in Mykolaiv, Ukraine – a region significantly impacted by the ongoing conflict.

Following extensive damage to schools, healthcare facilities and other public buildings, the ‘Partnering for safer and more resilient communities in Mykolaiv’ project aims to enhance safety, restore vital services, and support long-term recovery. The three-year initiative is part of Denmark's broader Ukraine Transition Programme, Denmark’s largest country programme to date, designed to address urgent and long-term needs facing Ukraine following Russia’s full-scale invasion.

“This project is about continuing our work to restore hope, dignity and opportunity for everyone in Mykolaiv,” explains Massimo Diana, Director of UNOPS Multi-Country Office in Ukraine and East Europe.

“Working alongside Ukraine and Denmark, UNOPS is committed to creating and restoring spaces where children can learn safely, essential services can function reliably, and communities most affected by the war can thrive once again,” he added.

The project focuses on three core areas:

• Infrastructure
  UNOPS will support reconstruction efforts, including the full restoration of the historic Arkas Gymnasium in downtown Mykolaiv and major repairs at the lyceum in Snihurivka, a community on the border between the Mykolaiv and Kherson regions. These works will improve accessibility and safety, including upgrades to anti-radiation shelters and building systems, helping children safely return to classrooms.

• Procurement of essential equipment
  To help Mykolaiv authorities re-establish and enhance public services, UNOPS will continue to procure and deliver key items such as school buses, firefighting vehicles, waste management trucks and medical equipment. All equipment will meet European Union standards, aligning with Ukraine's future integration goals.

• Building local capacity
  UNOPS will conduct specialized training sessions for local authorities and businesses, promoting sustainable procurement and effective project implementation. This component will strengthen local institutions and support inclusive economic development.

“With over 20 Danish and international partners involved in implementation, the programme’s goal is to assist Ukraine in preparing for post-war reconstruction and reform processes – particularly in the context of advancing EU integration,” said Ole Egberg Mikkelsen, Ambassador of Denmark to Ukraine

By improving access to education, health care and other public services, UNOPS is helping Mykolaiv communities rebuild with dignity. The project is also designed to be inclusive – supporting vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, in line with the principles of the 2030 Agenda.

“The challenges we face are many, and our environment changes constantly, but with reliable and competent assistance, we can provide our citizens with the services they need and deserve,” said Oleksandr Sienkevych, mayor of Mykolaiv.

This initiative is built on an existing partnership with Denmark. Since 2022, UNOPS has supported the renovation of housing for over 1,000 households, the delivery of equipment strengthening local services and the reconstruction of multiple hospitals and schools in Mykolaiv.