On July 30, 2026, in his 82nd year of life, after a serious illness, Mykola Ivanovych Babenko passed away – a PERSON whose name is forever inscribed in the history of Kherson education, Honored Teacher of Ukraine, Honorary Citizen of Kherson, founder of the city's first physics and mathematics lyceum, long-time director of the Kherson Physics and Technical Lyceum, wise mentor, outstanding educator, talented leader, and a true patriot of Ukraine.
A person has passed away who dedicated their life to children, education, and the future of Ukraine. A person who did not simply form a talented team of educators and teach physics – they nurtured personalities, shaped a generation of talented youth, and taught them to think, to be honest, responsible, and to love their Motherland.
For over six decades, Mykola Ivanovych devotedly served Ukrainian education. His professional path – is an example of selfless labor, high pedagogical mastery, and boundless love for his work. From a physics teacher to the head of one of Ukraine's most famous lyceums – every stage of his life was filled with responsibility, creative search, and tireless work.
In 1989, Mykola Ivanovych headed the physics and mathematics school, which became the Kherson Physics and Technical Lyceum the following year. It was under his leadership that the institution transformed into one of the best in Ukraine, becoming a center for intellectual development, scientific research, and high student achievements. For thousands of graduates, the lyceum became a gateway to a great life, and its director – a Teacher with a capital T.
He was not only a leader but also a scientist, the author and co-author of over twenty scientific works, and an innovator who always looked to the future and implemented modern approaches to educational management.
His many years of work were worthily recognized by the state. Mykola Ivanovych – Honored Teacher of Ukraine, Excellent Worker of Education of Ukraine, laureate of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine award, and Honorary Citizen of Kherson.
But his greatest award – is the love and gratitude of students, the respect of colleagues, and an indisputable authority in the pedagogical community.
In the hardest days of the temporary occupation of Kherson, Mykola Ivanovych remained faithful to Ukraine and his calling. He united the teaching staff, preserved the Ukrainian educational space in the lyceum, ensured the continuity of the learning process, and supported students and teachers. His principled nature, courage, and resilience became an example of true service to his state.
Even in the struggle against a serious illness, until his last day, he lived for the affairs of the lyceum, worrying about his students, teachers, the future of the institution, and Ukrainian education.
Eternal memory to Mykola Ivanovych Babenko.
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