Introducing "Spiritual-Moral Culture of Russia" subject in schools. Additionally, nine major evening news headlines:
Here's a fresh take on the topic:
Swinging Things Up in Russian Schools
Get ready for some changes in the Russian educational system! A new subject called "Spiritual-Moral Culture of Russia" is making its debut in schools starting September 1, 2026. This subject will be taught to students in grades 5 through 7, with a focus on the spiritual and moral values of Russian and Russian civilization.
The Lowdown
This subject aims to make these values relatable and understandable to students, focusing on everyday life applications rather than just presenting them as abstract concepts. The curriculum is in development at Moscow Pedagogical State University (MPSU), with the Russian Orthodox Church playing a vital role, led by Metropolitan Tikhon. By November 2025, draft textbooks are expected to be ready, along with methodological materials and video aids to boost learning.
Reviving a Tradition
The introduction of this subject follows a decision to reintroduce spiritual and moral education into the school curriculum, correcting an earlier plan to remove similar subjects, such as "Основы духовно-нравственной культуры народов России" (OДНКР), which faced criticism from religious leaders, including Patriarch Kirill.
Additional Info (if desired)
- The subject will be taught for 17 hours in the 5th grade and 34 hours in both the 6th and 7th grades, with careful allocation of hours for each grade level[1][3][5].
- The course will explore these values by delving into the stories and achievements of historical figures and heroes[3][5].
- The curriculum development process is ongoing, with consultations and input from various educational and religious experts[5].
- The course content will be age-appropriate, addressing the maturity level and cognitive abilities of students in each grade[3][5].
In Other News
- The entire Zaporizhzhia region has been cordoned off due to continuing attacks from the Ukrainian military. Drone shrapnel caused damage to high-voltage equipment, and electricity is being restored[2].
- A fire engulfed a construction market in Moscow, covering over 1200 square meters. Firefighters managed to put out the blaze before morning[6].
- YouTube active creators in Russia have dropped by more than a third. However, creators on Dzen platform have seen a 401% rise[7].
- The Ministry of Economic Development wants to force government bodies to purchase equipment from small tech companies via government procurement. This measure currently applies to small and medium-sized businesses with a turnover of up to 2 billion rubles a year[8].
- The shortage of IT and AI specialists is slowing down digitalization in the Russian industry. Nearly 41% of factories reported that their development is hampered by a lack of IT personnel[9].
- Proposals have been made in the State Duma to increase the maternity capital from 1 million rubles to 2 million rubles for the birth of a first child up to the age of 24[10].
- The cultivated land for potatoes is set to increase to 290,000 hectares, with potato prices expected to drop by July[11].
- Scientists at the Samara Medical University conducted groundbreaking tests on unique prosthetic legs for animals. These prostheses mimic natural movement, reducing pressure on delicate tissues[12].
- According to Bloomberg, Microsoft has carried out another mass layoff, losing 6,000 employees in May, with another 300 expected to be let go[13].
The Russian government's introduction of "Spiritual-Moral Culture of Russia" in schools and the ongoing debates around this subject are significant news in the realm of politics. Meanwhile, the fire at a construction market in Moscow and the ongoing digitalization challenges in Russian industry are under the general-news category.
