Investing in human capital during wartime : experimental evidence from Ukraine

This paper provides insights into human capital investments during wartime by presenting evidence from 3 experiments of an online tutoring program for Ukrainian students amid Russia's invasion. Conducted between 2023 and 2024, the experiments reached 10,000 students across Ukraine. The program offered 3 hours per week of small-group tutoring in math and Ukrainian language over 6 weeks, and used academic and psychosocial tools to address student challenges at different intensities of disruption. Results show that the program led to substantial improvements in learning - 0.49 standard deviations in math and 0.40 standard deviations in Ukrainian language - and consistent reductions in stress - 0.12 standard deviations. High take-up and engagement rates were observed, and 4 mechanisms were identified as drivers of impact: structured peer interactions, improved attitudes toward learning, enhanced socio-emotional skills, and increased student investments. A complementary experiment using information nudges highlights challenges in promoting parental investments in a conflict setting. The program was cost-effective, with benefit-to-cost ratios ranging from 31-56, and scalable given its reliance on existing infrastructure and capacity.