Thursday, September 1, 2016

Knowledge Day

Knowledge Day, often simply called 1 of September, is the day when the school year traditionally starts in Ukraine and many other former Soviet republics.


Knowledge Day originated in the USSR, where it had been established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 15, 1984, and celebrated annually on 1 September. 

This day also marks the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. 

It has special significance for the incoming class of first graders who come to school for the first time and often participate in a celebratory assembly on this date. 


The day also involves the First Bell  where a first grade girl is lifted on the shoulders of an 11th grade male pupil, and paraded around, ringing the first bell of the school year. Students in other grades may begin studies on September 1 or a few days later, usually without any special festivities.

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