Russia installing Investigative Committee cadet classes in occupied Kherson schools
Militarization of schoolchildren in the temporarily occupied territories (Photo: Getty Images)
In the temporarily occupied Kherson region, plans are in place to open cadet classes of Russia’s Investigative Committee in schools starting in 2026, according to the National Resistance Center (NRC).
Specifically, schools in the Henichesk, Chaplynka, and Novotroitske districts of the temporarily occupied Kherson region are expected to introduce cadet classes affiliated with Russia’s Investigative Committee. The project is aimed at so-called motivated students.
According to NRC sources, this initiative represents the systematic militarization of children and their early involvement in the structures of the aggressor state’s security agencies.
Agreements to open such classes were signed by Dmitry Malikov, head of the Investigative Directorate of Russia’s Investigative Committee in the Kherson region, indicating the departmental nature of the initiative.
Сadet classes create a closed educational model based on the principle of school – departmental education – service. The curriculum is focused on discipline, hierarchy, and unconditional obedience rather than the development of critical thinking.
In addition, by establishing such classes, the Russian administration is effectively integrating Russia’s Investigative Committee into civilian life. According to the NRC, this is done through the use of departmental symbols, joint events, and the constant presence of security agency representatives in schools.
Sources also report that participation in cadet classes is not voluntary in practice. School administrations receive informal instructions to compile lists of students, particularly from socially vulnerable families. Parents who refuse may face pressure from school management or conflicts with the administration.
The National Resistance Center emphasizes that the opening of Investigative Committee cadet classes in the occupied Kherson region is part of an occupation policy aimed at forming a loyal кадровий reserve for repressive bodies and entrenching control over the region through the education system.
Militarization of schoolchildren in the temporarily occupied territories
As previously reported by RBC-Ukraine, Russia continues to intensify the militarization of children in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine. New initiatives include mandatory participation of schoolchildren in events with a military focus.
Starting December 1, 2025, a so-called military-patriotic dictation is planned for schoolchildren and students aged 14 and older in the occupied territories.
Administrations of educational institutions in Berdiansk, Mariupol, and Melitopol have received instructions to ensure full participation and to record those who are absent.
Schoolchildren under occupation will be forced to study information about drones, after which they will be required to assemble them during labor classes.
