Poland integrates practical weapons training into school programs, while Lithuania focuses on citizenship and defense courses.
[This is an automatically generated summary, for reference only]
While many in Europe are skeptical of teaching civilians to use weapons, neighboring Poland has incorporated practical weapons training for 13-15 year olds, involving weekly sessions with laser weapons and simulations. In Vroclaw, a major Polish city, four virtual arenas allow students to safely simulate real shooting situations. This weapons training is part of a new curriculum module focusing on modern security challenges and practical skills given changing geopolitical circumstances. Lithuania currently lacks scheduled simulated shooting lessons, though the Ministry of Education and Science is monitoring European trends. In Lithuania, students primarily learn about citizenship and security in the 9th grade through mandatory courses, which cover national security and media literacy. A three-day course for 9th graders teaches survival skills, first aid, and appropriate behavior in emergencies. International commitments limit the scope of military training for minors in Lithuania. Additional opportunities for youth to learn about defense include cadet programs and activities with the Lithuanian Scouts. Students in grades III-IV can optionally take a National Security and National Defense program, which covers threats, defense systems, and practical skills. The Ministry of National Defense has collaborated with the Ministry of Education to develop a national Cadet Training Program, aiming to enhance competencies like drone operation. Furthermore, Denmark has introduced a controversial military preparedness course in some high schools, covering military history, geopolitics, and practical simulations.
